NH
New Hampshire House Bill HB333

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB333

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  

Caption

Relative to changing the date of the state primary election and adding a run-off election if necessary.

Impact

The implications of HB 333 on state laws would be significant as it aims to adjust existing statutes regarding election dates and procedures. By changing the primary election date, the bill could align local elections with state primaries, potentially streamlining the electoral process. The creation of a run-off election is intended to ensure that candidates have broad support before advancing to the general election, which could enhance the legitimacy of the electoral outcomes. However, there may be logistical challenges associated with this transition for local election officials as they adapt to the new timelines.

Summary

House Bill 333 seeks to modify the New Hampshire primary election schedule by moving the date of the state primary election to the second Tuesday in March. This change is expected to impact the electoral process by allowing candidates and political parties more time to prepare for elections. Additionally, it proposes the introduction of a run-off election for cases where no candidate achieves a majority vote (50%) in the primary, which could lead to more competitive election outcomes and possibly increase voter engagement.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 333 centers on its potential financial implications and the practicality of implementing the new run-off elections. Opponents of the bill express concerns about the increased costs associated with additional elections, which may require more resources for staffing polling places and other administrative expenses. Furthermore, stakeholders highlight that the change may confuse voters who are accustomed to the traditional primary timeline, emphasizing the need for effective communication regarding the new procedures to ensure voter awareness and participation.

Companion Bills

NH HB333

Carry Over Relative to changing the date of the state primary election and adding a run-off election if necessary.

Previously Filed As

NH HB333

Relative to changing the date of the state primary election and adding a run-off election if necessary.

NH SB133

Relative to changing the date of the state primary election and creates runoff election for federal primary election.

NH HB115

Relative to changing the date of the state primary election.

NH HB101

Relative to requiring voters declare a party affiliation prior to a state primary election.

NH HB363

Relative to deadlines for candidates filing by nomination papers for state general elections.

NH HB345

Enabling ranked-choice voting for state party primary elections and municipal elections.

NH HB116

Relative to fees and primary petitions required for primary ballot election access.

NH SB70

Relative to the establishment of an election information portal and relative to the purchase of election equipment.

NH HB40

Relative to domicile residency, voter registration, and investigation of voter verification letters, and relative to the terms "resident," "inhabitant," "residence," and "residency."

NH SB156

Relative to voter registration and verification of voter identity.

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