Kansas Senate Bill SCR1617

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/24
• Refer: 2/2/24
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to require that vacancies in the offices of the secretary of state and the attorney general be filled by election at a state party delegate convention.

Impact

Should SCR1617 be approved, it would fundamentally alter the dynamics of filling these essential executive positions in Kansas. The proposed amendment delineates that if a vacancy occurs, the state party convention must convene within a specified timeframe, allowing party members to vote on a replacement. This change could lead to different candidates being selected compared to gubernatorial appointments, potentially offering a more democratic process aligned with party values, but it might also introduce party politics into what is traditionally a gubernatorial decision.

Summary

SCR1617 proposes an amendment to the Kansas Constitution regarding how vacancies in the offices of the secretary of state and attorney general are filled. Currently, the governor has the authority to appoint individuals to these positions when they become vacant. This bill seeks to change that process, establishing a new procedure where vacancies will be filled through an election at a state party delegate convention. This approach emphasizes party involvement and attempts to ensure that the replacement aligns with party preferences in these high-profile offices.

Contention

As with many legislative changes, SCR1617 is not without its critics. Proponents argue that granting party conventions the authority to elect replacements increases transparency and representation within the party structure. However, detractors may raise concerns about removing authority from the governor and what that means for the executive branch's cohesion. Additionally, some could perceive this amendment as further entrenching party influence in the state’s governance, which could lead to increased partisanship and reduced efficiency in government operations.