The bill H.314 proposes a significant overhaul of Vermont's primary election system by implementing a top-four nonpartisan primary, allowing the four candidates with the most votes to advance to the general election, regardless of party affiliation. This change is encapsulated in the short title "People over Party Provision for Vermont's Primary Elections Act of 2025." The bill amends existing laws to eliminate the requirement for nominations by major political parties, thereby promoting a nonpartisan approach. It also clarifies that primary elections will not determine party nominees and introduces new rules for candidate petitions and ballot procedures, including the removal of party affiliation from the primary ballot.

In addition to these changes, the bill streamlines the nomination process by repealing specific provisions related to justices of the peace and adjusting the requirements for independent candidates. It establishes new procedures for filing nomination statements and emphasizes that the Secretary of State will provide necessary forms. The bill also modifies ballot content requirements, ensuring candidates are listed alphabetically without party affiliation, except for those who identify as "Independent." Furthermore, it allows candidates to withdraw from the general election ballot until 5:00 p.m. on the 10th day after the primary, with provisions for replacing candidates who withdraw or die. The changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 17-49, 17-51, 17-1881a, 17-2721