SB221 Summary

• Reduces the signature requirement for political parties seeking statewide ballot access from three percent to one and one-half percent of qualified electors who cast ballots for Governor in the last general election.

• Reduces the signature requirement for independent candidates seeking statewide office from three percent to one and one-half percent of qualified electors who cast ballots for Governor in the last general election.

• Changes the deadline for political parties to submit signatures from "on the date of the first primary election" to "not later than noon on the third Wednesday following the date prescribed for a second primary election."

• Maintains the three percent signature requirement for independent candidates seeking local office.

• Becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.