WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

A 3136

Provides for the recall power of the electors to remove an elective officer

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Bendett and 1 co-sponsor

Bill A 3136 empowers voters to recall elected officials, enhancing accountability by allowing constituents to remove underperforming representatives through a formal process.

OPINION REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 3136

Summary of Bill A 3136

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 3136
  • Title: Provides for the recall power of the electors to remove an elective officer
  • Status: Opinion referred to Judiciary
  • Introduced: January 23, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 3136 aims to empower voters with the ability to recall elected officials from their positions. The intent is to enhance democratic accountability by allowing constituents to remove officials who they believe are not fulfilling their duties or acting in the best interest of the public.

Key Provisions

  • Recall Mechanism: The bill establishes a formal process through which voters can initiate a recall election for any elective officer.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Specific criteria will be outlined for the circumstances under which a recall can be initiated, ensuring that it is not used frivolously.
  • Petition Requirements: The bill will detail the number of signatures required from registered voters to trigger a recall election, as well as the timeframe in which these signatures must be collected.
  • Election Process: Provisions will be included to govern how recall elections are conducted, including timelines for the election and the responsibilities of election officials.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Elective Officers: All elected officials at various levels (local, state) could be subject to recall under this bill.
  • Voters: The electorate would gain a significant tool for political accountability, allowing them to actively participate in the governance process.
  • Election Officials: Those responsible for administering elections would need to implement new procedures for handling recall petitions and elections.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:
    • January 23, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to Governmental Operations.
    • January 24, 2025: Sent to the Attorney General for an opinion on its legality and implications.
    • February 5, 2025: Opinion referred to the Judiciary Committee for further consideration.

Related Bills

This bill is part of a broader legislative context, with several related bills from prior sessions, including:
- A 1726
- A 6161
- A 1493
- A 9085
- A 8763
- A 5291
- A 4898
- A 3091
- S 475 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill A 3136 represents a significant step towards increasing electoral accountability by providing a structured process for the recall of elected officials. As it progresses through the legislative process, its implications for governance and voter engagement will be closely monitored.

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

Sign in to ask a question.