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, candidates can file with the town clerk of their domicile or the designated town clerk as determined by the secretary of state. The bill also specifies that the secretary of state must receive an affidavit of qualifications from candidates before their names can be printed on primary ballots.

Additionally, the bill empowers town clerks and deputy town clerks to witness affidavits for candidates filing in person, regardless of whether they are notary publics. This change aims to streamline the process for candidates and ensure that affidavits can be witnessed more broadly. The effective date of the act is set for 60 days after its passage, which is 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