Iowa Senate Bill SF330

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/23
• Refer: 2/20/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to special elections to fill vacancies in county boards of supervisors and city elective offices, and including applicability provisions.(See SF 487.)

Impact

The impact of SF330 on Iowa's electoral laws is notable. By establishing a more explicit timeline for when vacancies must be filled through special elections, the bill aims to enhance governmental accountability and responsiveness. This change is expected to ensure that elected positions are filled promptly, allowing constituents to have a fully representative government without prolonged vacancies. It streamlines the process, removing ambiguity around when special elections should be called, thereby improving the operational efficiency of local governance.

Summary

Senate File 330 addresses the procedures for conducting special elections to fill vacancies in county boards of supervisors and elective city offices in Iowa. The bill mandates that special elections must be held to fill such vacancies if a certain period of the remaining term is applicable; specifically, it requires a special election for county supervisors if at least six months remain and for city offices if at least one year remains in the term. Under current law, special elections can only be convened upon petition or specific declarations regarding physical or mental status, making this bill a significant procedural change.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding SF330 may arise from debates over the timing and necessity of special elections. Supporters argue that filling vacancies swiftly is essential to maintain public trust and ensure effective representation, while critics might raise concerns regarding the financial implications of holding more elections. There is also the potential for disagreement about the threshold requirements for special elections, with some advocating for more flexibility in exceptional circumstances. The balance between ensuring representation and managing electoral costs will likely be a focal point of discussion as the bill progresses.