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Bill

H 393

ELECTIONS – Amends existing law to revise certain candidate filing fees.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 393 raises candidate filing fees in Idaho to deter frivolous candidacies, ensuring serious candidates participate and enhancing electoral integrity.

Reported Printed and Referred to State Affairs
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Bill Summary · H 393

Summary of House Bill 393 (H 393)

Overview

Bill Number: H 393
Title: Elections – Amends existing law to revise certain candidate filing fees
Introduced: March 10, 2025
Status: Reported Printed and Referred to State Affairs
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Elections, Candidate Filing Fees, State Officials

Purpose

House Bill 393 aims to amend existing Idaho election laws by revising the filing fees required for candidates seeking public office. The intent of the legislation is to deter frivolous candidacies that may disrupt the electoral process and ensure that only serious candidates participate in elections.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following changes to the filing fees for various public offices:

  1. United States Senator:

    • Current Fee: $500
    • Proposed Fee: $1,000

  2. United States Congressional Representatives:

    • Current Fee: $300
    • Proposed Fee: $500

  3. Lieutenant Governor:

    • Current Fee: $200
    • Proposed Fee: $1,000

  4. Secretary of State:

    • Current Fee: $200
    • Proposed Fee: $1,000

  5. State Controller:

    • Current Fee: $200
    • Proposed Fee: $1,000

  6. State Treasurer:

    • Current Fee: $200
    • Proposed Fee: $1,000

  7. Attorney General:

    • Current Fee: $200
    • Proposed Fee: $1,000

  8. Superintendent of Public Instruction:

    • Current Fee: $200
    • Proposed Fee: $1,000

  9. Additional Positions:

    • Similar increases in filing fees are proposed for other state offices as outlined in the bill.

The bill also includes technical corrections to ensure clarity and consistency in the law.

Impact

  • Candidates: The increased filing fees are expected to reduce the number of non-serious candidates, thereby streamlining the election process.
  • State Funds: The fees collected will be deposited into the state's general fund. However, the fiscal note indicates that this legislation will not impact the state's general fund or any dedicated or federal funds, implying a neutral fiscal impact overall.

Procedural Timeline

  • March 10, 2025: Bill introduced and read for the first time.
  • March 11, 2025: Bill reported printed and referred to the State Affairs Committee for further consideration.

Conclusion

House Bill 393 seeks to revise candidate filing fees in Idaho to promote serious candidacies and enhance the integrity of the electoral process. By increasing the financial commitment required to run for office, the bill aims to discourage individuals from filing frivolous candidacies that could undermine competitive elections.

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

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