This legislation significantly alters the nomination requirements for various public offices by specifying that nomination papers must be signed by at least twenty-five registered voters, whether from the state or, for Congressional candidates, their respective districts. Additionally, it introduces changes to the filing fees associated with candidacy, creating a financial structure that aims to help manage costs linked to holding primary and special elections.
SB3242 amends several sections of Chapter 12 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, which pertain to regulations surrounding elections, specifically focusing on the nomination process for candidates. The primary election is established to be held on the second Saturday of August every even-numbered year. The bill specifies that candidates for the general or special general elections must be nominated in the preceding primary or special primary election, underscoring the necessity of participating in the nomination process.
A key point of contention within SB3242 is the provision that requires nominees for Lieutenant Governor to be appointed by the gubernatorial nominee from the same political party, contingent upon the ratification of a constitutional amendment. This stipulation may provoke debate regarding the implications of partisanship in the nomination process and the potential impact on independent candidates and voters' choice in the election process. The amendment could influence the political landscape of the state, particularly concerning the relationship and alignment between gubernatorial nominations and party affiliation.