The bill S. 123 aims to amend Section 7-11-15 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to the qualifications for candidates in general elections. The amendment introduces a process for reopening the filing period for candidates in the event of a candidate's death or withdrawal after the initial filing deadline has passed. Specifically, if there are two or fewer candidates for an office and one candidate dies or withdraws, the relevant state or county committee may choose to allow other candidates to enter the race.

To facilitate this process, the bill stipulates that the committee must hold a public hearing within 48 hours of the candidate's death or withdrawal and must publicly vote to authorize the reopening of the filing period. If approved, the additional filing period will last for three business days following the vote. Furthermore, any candidate wishing to withdraw must submit a written notice to the Director of the County Board of Voter Registration and Elections. This bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 7-11-15
Latest Version: 7-11-15