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 the town clerks, who are now permitted to witness affidavits regardless of their notary public status. Specifically, the bill modifies RSA 655:15, II and III to include the secretary of state as an official with whom candidates can file their nominations, alongside town clerks.

Additionally, the bill amends RSA 655:28 to empower town clerks or deputy town clerks to witness affidavits for candidates filing in person, even if they are not notary publics. This change aims to streamline the filing process for candidates and ensure that more officials can assist in witnessing necessary documentation. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage and is projected to have a minimal fiscal impact of less than $10,000 annually from 2025 to 2028.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 655:15, 655:28
As Amended by the House: 655:15, 655:28