Senate Bill 34 introduces new provisions regarding the withdrawal of candidacy for certain elective offices in Wisconsin. Under the bill, individuals who file nomination papers for offices to be filled at the general election can withdraw their candidacy by submitting a sworn statement to the Elections Commission before specific deadlines. If this statement is filed, the individual's name will not appear on the ballot. The bill applies to various offices, including those for national and statewide positions, with the exception of district attorney. Additionally, candidates withdrawing for national or statewide offices must pay a fee of $1,000, while those for other offices must pay $250. The Elections Commission is tasked with establishing a verification process for these sworn statements.
Furthermore, the bill establishes penalties for false statements regarding candidacy withdrawal. Specifically, intentionally making or filing a false statement will be classified as a Class G felony, which carries a penalty of up to $25,000 in fines, imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both. This legislation aims to ensure the integrity of the electoral process by regulating the withdrawal of candidacies and imposing strict penalties for fraudulent actions.