This bill amends existing laws regarding the appointment of successors to vacancies in partisan elective offices at both the county and state levels. Specifically, it stipulates that if a vacancy occurs in a partisan county office after the general election and before the start of the next term, the successor's term may begin once they qualify, and they must be from the same political party as the incumbent if the incumbent declared a political party preference when elected. This requirement is similarly applied to legislative offices. The bill also clarifies the process for filling vacancies in nonpartisan offices, ensuring that appointees are from the same legislative district or county as the vacated office.

Additionally, the bill includes a contingent effective date of January 1, 2027, which is dependent on the approval of a proposed amendment to the state Constitution by voters in November 2026. If the amendment is not ratified, the provisions of this act will be rendered void. The amendments aim to ensure party representation continuity in partisan offices and streamline the appointment process for filling vacancies.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 36.16.110, 42.12.040