Ballot Access Modifications Public Health Concerns

Various deadlines related to ballot access requirements for candidates are extended in 2020 due to public health concerns. Parties may amend their bylaws as needed during 2020 to allow remote participation in assemblies and conventions and to fill vacancies. Delegates to assemblies may participate remotely if allowed by the party, and parties may reduce or waive any quorum requirements to allow assemblies to proceed. Members of vacancy committees may participate in meetings remotely if allowed by the party, and parties may determine whether to allow proxies at vacancy committee meetings. The ability of the state chair to fill a vacancy is extended to situations in which the vacancy occurs because the designation was not filled by the assembly or the vacancy committee. If a party has restrictions in its rules or bylaws concerning the timing of notice requirements for meetings of the state central committee or other meetings, the timing requirements may be waived so long as at least 3 days notice is given. If a designated election official is not able to receive candidate petitions due to public health concerns, the official may extend the deadline to file the petitions or designate an alternate filing location, or both. Signatures gathered after the original deadline are not valid. The modifications are repealed effective December 31, 2020.

(Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)