This bill amends the process for filling vacancies in nominations for public office by allowing qualified individuals to express their interest in being selected as candidates and ensuring they have access to legal representation throughout the selection process. Specifically, it mandates that any person interested in filling a vacancy must notify the relevant political committee at least seven days before the selection meeting. Upon receiving this notification, the committee is required to inform the individual of their right to legal representation. Additionally, the bill stipulates that a final list of qualified committee members must be provided to interested candidates no later than seven days before the vote, allowing for objections to member qualifications as per the committee's bylaws.
Furthermore, the bill extends the timeframe for municipal clerks to certify the official lists of county committee members and municipal committee chairs from 20 days to 45 days after the relevant meeting. It also emphasizes transparency by requiring that these lists include accurate contact information and be posted on the committees' websites. The rules governing the selection process must be shared with interested candidates at least 24 hours before the vote, and all contested votes will be conducted by secret ballot to maintain the integrity of the nomination process. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency, accessibility, and ethical standards in the candidate selection process for public office.