Constitutional amendment to prohibit a person appointed by the governor to fill a vacancy in a statewide office from being a candidate for that office in the election to fill the vacancy. (2/3-CA13s1(A)) (OR NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Impact
If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the procedures surrounding vacancies in the office of lieutenant governor in Louisiana. It seeks to enhance the transparency and fairness of the electoral process by ensuring that individuals appointed in a temporary capacity cannot exert undue influence over the election that is intended to fill their position. This change could also set a precedent for similar amendments regarding other statewide offices in the future, thereby shaping the broader context of governance in Louisiana.
Summary
Senate Bill 33 proposes a constitutional amendment to amend Article IV, Section 15 of the Louisiana Constitution. The central provision of the bill stipulates that a person appointed by the governor to fill a vacancy in the office of lieutenant governor shall be ineligible to be a candidate in the subsequent election meant to fill that vacancy. The rationale behind this proposal is to prevent appointed officials from leveraging their temporary position to secure a longer-term role through an election process, maintaining the integrity of the electoral process in Louisiana.
Sentiment
The sentiment regarding SB 33 appears to be cautiously positive among those who advocate for electoral integrity and reform. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary measure to prevent potential conflicts of interest and to promote a more democratic process. However, there may also be concerns raised by individuals who feel that this restriction could hinder political mobility or the ability of capable leaders to seek election. Overall, the sentiment emphasizes a desire for fairness in the political process over concerns regarding limitations on candidate eligibility.
Contention
Points of contention regarding the bill may arise from discussions over the restrictiveness of disallowing appointed officials from running for election. Critics may argue that this could limit the options available to the electorate, especially if the appointed individual has proven to be effective in their role. Additionally, some may question whether this amendment could create barriers to qualified candidates who may wish to continue their service in a more permanent capacity after being appointed. Thus, while promoting electoral integrity, the bill poses critical discussions about the balance between democratic choice and the functionality of government.
Constitutional amendment to provide that any person who is appointed to fill a vacancy in an elected office shall not be eligible to be a candidate for election to that office. (2/3-CA13s1(A))
Constitutional amendment to provide that any person who is appointed to fill a vacancy in an elected office shall not be eligible to be a candidate for election to that office. (2/3-CA13s1(A))
(Constitutional Amendment) Relative to vacancies in the office of governor, provides for filling of such vacancies and vacancies created by gubernatorial succession to the office of governor (OR NO IMPACT See Note)
Constitutional amendment to provide that under certain circumstances a person who fills a vacancy in local elective offices shall not be an eligible candidate in next election held for such office. (2/3 - CA13s1(A))
Prohibits a person appointed to fill a vacancy in the office of lieutenant governor when the unexpired term exceeds one year from being a candidate in the election to fill the remainder of the term
(Constitutional Amendment) Abolishes the office of lieutenant governor, transfers duties to secretary of state, provides for filling vacancies in office of secretary of state and governor (OR SEE FISC NOTE EX)
(Constitutional Amendment) Authorizes the appointment of a person to temporarily fill a vacancy in the legislature until the vacancy can be filled by election in the manner provided by law (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Prohibits a person appointed to fill a vacancy in the office of lieutenant governor when the unexpired term exceeds one year from being a candidate in the election to fill the remainder of the term. (gov sig)
Proposing a constitutional amendment for filling vacancies in appellate judicial offices by appointment and for nonpartisan retention elections for those offices.
Constitutional amendment to provide for elections to fill newly-created judgeships and judicial vacancies and for exceptions as to courts of limited or specialized jurisdictions. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (Item #20) (EN NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)