The bill amends Oklahoma election laws to clarify the eligibility criteria for candidates, particularly presidential electors, by introducing definitions for terms such as "disqualifying crime," "disqualifying event," and "ineligible or decertified." It establishes that presidential electors cannot vote for or pledge their votes to candidates who have experienced a disqualifying event unless that event is legally disregarded. The State Election Board is required to notify individuals of their ineligibility within five days of becoming aware of a disqualifying event, and it outlines procedures for disregarding votes cast for ineligible candidates. Additionally, the bill imposes penalties for disseminating political advertisements in support of ineligible candidates, classifying such actions as misdemeanors.
Furthermore, the bill addresses the responsibilities of presidential electors, stating that if they refuse or fail to vote for their party's nominated candidates, it constitutes a violation of their oath, resulting in the forfeiture of their office. It clarifies that a vacancy occurs if an elector fails to meet at the designated time or does not vote for the eligible candidates they are pledged to. However, electors can vote for any eligible candidate if faced with ineligible nominees without creating a vacancy, unless they refuse to vote entirely. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.