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Bill

Bill

HB 914

Termination reports; require a candidate to be disqualified if he or she files while campaigning.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jody Steverson

HB 914 would disqualify candidates who file campaign reports while actively campaigning, creating automatic removal for procedural violations.

Died In Committee
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 914

Legislative bill overview

HB 914 would disqualify a candidate from running for office if they file campaign paperwork while actively campaigning. The bill specifically addresses what appears to be a timing or procedural violation regarding when candidates submit required termination reports or campaign documentation.

Why is this important

Campaign finance and candidate qualification rules form the foundation of electoral integrity and transparency. This bill would create automatic disqualification for what it defines as a procedural violation, potentially affecting who can participate in elections and raising questions about whether the penalty is proportional to the offense.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition clarity: The bill's language about "campaigning" while filing is vague—it's unclear what specific activities constitute problematic simultaneous campaigning and filing, potentially creating confusion or arbitrary enforcement
  • Proportionality of punishment: Automatic disqualification is a severe penalty for what may be a minor administrative or timing error, raising questions about whether it fits the offense
  • Practical feasibility: The timing requirements could be difficult to navigate in practice, especially for candidates juggling multiple procedural deadlines, and might inadvertently exclude qualified candidates due to technicalities rather than fitness for office

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

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