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Bill

Bill

SB 393

AN ACT CONCERNING SPECIAL ELECTIONS TO FILL VACANCIES DUE TO THE DEATH OF CERTAIN ELECTED OFFICIALS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tom Delnicki and 2 co-sponsors

SB 393 establishes procedural requirements for Connecticut municipalities to conduct special elections filling vacant elected offices caused by official deaths.

SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 393

Legislative bill overview

SB 393 establishes procedures for conducting special elections to fill vacant elected offices resulting from an official's death. The bill likely defines timelines, eligibility requirements, and election mechanics for these interim appointments or elections. This addresses the procedural gap when elected officials pass away mid-term.

Why is this important

Vacancies from deaths can leave constituencies without representation and create uncertainty about succession procedures. Clear statutory procedures ensure democratic continuity, prevent prolonged representation gaps, and establish consistent rules across different offices and situations. Without this framework, different municipalities or offices might handle vacancies inconsistently.

Potential points of contention

  • Timeline requirements: Disputes over how quickly special elections must occur versus allowing sufficient preparation time for candidates and voters
  • Interim appointment authority: Whether appointed successors or interim officials should temporarily fill seats before special elections are held
  • Scope of coverage: Which elected positions trigger special elections versus allowing other succession methods (party appointments, promotions from lower offices)
  • Cost allocation: Who bears the expense of special elections, particularly in smaller municipalities with limited budgets

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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