This bill amends existing laws regarding the filing process for candidates seeking office and the witnessing of affidavits. It allows the secretary of state to serve as a filing official, in addition to town clerks, who can now witness affidavits regardless of their notary public status. Specifically, the bill modifies RSA 655:15 to include the secretary of state as an official with whom candidates can file their nominations, and it clarifies that town clerks or deputy town clerks can witness affidavits for candidates filing in person.

Additionally, the bill updates RSA 655:28 to ensure that candidates for various offices must submit an affidavit of qualifications at the time of filing, with the new provision allowing town clerks to witness these affidavits without needing to be notaries. The changes aim to streamline the filing process and expand the authority of local officials in facilitating candidate nominations. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, on July 28, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 655:15, 655:28
As Amended by the House: 655:15, 655:28
Version adopted by both bodies: 655:15, 655:28
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 655:15, 655:28