The bill amends section 558 of the Michigan election law to update the requirements for candidates filing nominating petitions, qualifying petitions, filing fees, or affidavits of candidacy. It mandates that candidates submit two copies of an affidavit of identity, which must include various personal details such as the candidate's name, residential address, citizenship status, political party affiliation, and any dual citizenship information. Notably, candidates with dual citizenship must provide additional details about their citizenship status with other countries, including the method of obtaining citizenship and whether it is active or inactive. The bill also clarifies that the affidavit must be filed not later than one business day after nomination and includes a signed statement regarding compliance with campaign finance laws.

Additionally, the bill specifies that if a candidate's affidavit includes dual citizenship, the filing officer must promptly send a digital copy to the secretary of state, who is then required to post the candidate's name and the countries of dual citizenship on the department's website. The bill also introduces a provision that disqualifies candidates who fail to select one office when filing for multiple offices that run concurrently, and it emphasizes that any false statements in the affidavit are considered perjury. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance transparency and accountability in the candidate nomination process in Michigan.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 168.558