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Bill

Bill

HB 363

Candidates for office; disqualification, affidavit of eligibility.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by David Reid

Virginia bill requiring candidates to file eligibility affidavits before ballot access to verify constitutional and statutory qualifications for office.

Left in Privileges and Elections
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 363

Legislative bill overview

HB 363 requires candidates for office in Virginia to file an affidavit confirming they meet constitutional and statutory eligibility requirements before appearing on the ballot. The bill establishes a verification mechanism to ensure candidates are legally qualified to hold the positions they seek.

Why is this important

Election administration depends on candidates meeting basic legal qualifications (age, citizenship, residency, etc.). This bill creates a formal documentation requirement that could catch ineligible candidates before ballots are printed, potentially reducing disputes and invalid candidacies. It also shifts responsibility for verification from election officials to candidates themselves.

Potential points of contention

  • Administrative burden vs. voter access: Requiring affidavits adds paperwork for candidates and could inadvertently exclude eligible candidates who miss procedural requirements, raising questions about ballot access
  • Enforcement and liability: Unclear what penalties apply to false affidavits and whether election officials have resources to verify claims, or if candidates could face personal legal liability
  • Timing and deadlines: The mechanism for when affidavits must be filed relative to other candidate deadlines could create conflicts or strategic advantages depending on implementation details

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

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