This bill amends existing election laws to prohibit certain candidates for political office from participating in the counting of ballots. Specifically, it adds new language to RSA 658:31, stating that individuals who appear on the ballot, with the exception of candidates for the positions of moderator, assistant moderator, clerk, selectperson, inspector of election, and supervisor of the checklist, are not allowed to count ballots prior to the election. This change aims to ensure the integrity of the ballot counting process by preventing potential conflicts of interest among candidates.

The bill also includes a provision that establishes an effective date, stating that the act will take effect 60 days after its passage. This timeline allows for the necessary adjustments to be made in preparation for upcoming elections, ensuring that the new regulations are in place and understood by all parties involved in the electoral process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 658:31
As Amended by the House: 658:31