This bill amends the process for candidates filing for state representative in special elections by allowing them to file their candidacy with their town or city clerk instead of solely with the secretary of state. The current legal language in RSA 655:81, III is repealed and replaced with new provisions that require town or city clerks to be open for at least three days during the filing period, with each day having a minimum of two hours of operation. Additionally, the town or city clerks are mandated to forward each declaration of candidacy to the secretary of state on the same day it is filed. The specific dates and times for filing will be made available on the secretary of state's website.

The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage and is projected to have a fiscal impact of less than $10,000 for each fiscal year from 2026 to 2029. The Department of State and the New Hampshire Municipal Association have been contacted regarding this legislation.