SB 3618

Abstract

Amends the Election Code. Changes the date for general primary elections from the third Tuesday in March to the first Tuesday in April. Changes the date for consolidated primary elections from the last Tuesday in February to the second Tuesday in March. In provisions concerning nomination petitions for established party candidates, provides that the minimum signature requirement for various offices may not exceed 5,000. For various offices currently without a maximum signature requirement, provides that a candidate's petition for nomination may not contain more than 3 times the minimum number of signatures required for the office. Provides that when reviewing a candidate's petition for nomination under these provisions, an election authority shall only consider signatures beginning on the first page of the petition through the signature on the page where the maximum signature requirement is met. Requires the State Board of Elections to adopt rules authorizing election authorities and local election officials to establish procedures under which digital voter signatures may be collected for nominating, candidate, and referendum petitions. Provides that the rules shall allow any election authority or local election official to provide or supply electronic devices for the collection of digital voter signatures on petitions. Provides that the electronic devices may be capable of allowing a person to access and use the online voter registration system established under the Code. Makes conforming changes. Effective immediately.