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HD 1685

An Act relative to special election scheduling

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Russell Holmes

HD 1685 shortens special election timelines, allows concurrent elections, and mandates enhanced voter outreach - improving responsiveness to vacancies while posing logistical challenges.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 1685

Summary of HD 1685: An Act relative to special election scheduling

Bill Overview

HD 1685, titled "An Act relative to special election scheduling", is a proposed bill that aims to modify the process and timeline for holding special elections in the state. The bill was introduced in the state legislature on November 29, 2025.

Key Provisions

The main provisions of HD 1685 include:

  1. Reduced Timeframe for Special Elections: The bill would shorten the required timeframe for scheduling a special election from the current 90-day minimum to a new 60-day minimum. This would allow special elections to be held more quickly after a vacancy occurs.

  2. Allowance for Concurrent Special Elections: The legislation would permit the scheduling of multiple special elections to be held concurrently, rather than requiring them to be held separately. This could improve efficiency and reduce administrative costs.

  3. Flexibility in Special Election Dates: The bill grants the Secretary of State more flexibility in setting the specific date for a special election, allowing them to choose a date that does not conflict with other major elections or holidays.

  4. Voter Outreach Requirements: HD 1685 mandates that the Secretary of State implement an enhanced voter education and outreach program to inform residents about upcoming special elections and the voting process.

Impact and Affected Parties

This bill, if passed, would primarily impact the scheduling and administration of special elections at the state and local level. Key stakeholders that would be affected include:

  • State and local election officials responsible for organizing and overseeing special elections
  • Voters who would need to be informed about and participate in special elections held under the new timelines
  • Candidates and political parties participating in special election campaigns

The reduced timeframe and increased scheduling flexibility could improve responsiveness to vacancies, but may also present logistical challenges for election administrators and voters.

Procedural Timeline

HD 1685 has been introduced in the state legislature and is currently under consideration by the relevant committees. If it passes both chambers of the legislature, the bill would then be sent to the Governor for potential signature into law. The changes outlined in the bill would take effect for all special elections scheduled after the legislation's enactment date.

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

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