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, for candidates running for state representative in districts containing one town or ward, as well as for delegates to state party conventions. For districts with more than one town or ward, the filing can also be done with the secretary of state. The bill modifies RSA 655:15, II and III by inserting the secretary of state as an additional option for filing, thereby expanding the avenues available for candidates.

Furthermore, the bill updates the affidavit process for candidates by allowing town clerks or deputy town clerks to witness affidavits, regardless of whether they are notary publics. This change is reflected in the amendment to RSA 655:28, which now includes language that empowers town clerks to witness affidavits if candidates file in person with them. The bill 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