HB241 Summary

• Write-in candidates must file a statement of candidacy with the judge of probate (county offices) or Secretary of State (state/federal offices) no later than the 30th day before the election.

• Write-in votes shall be counted only for candidates who have announced their write-in candidacy; votes for unannounced write-in candidates are not counted.

• Write-in votes for a specific office are counted when they equal or exceed the vote difference between the top two candidates, or upon written request accompanied by a bond or certified check.

• County canvassing boards must provide 24 hours' notice to political party chairs, independent candidates, and announced write-in candidates before meeting to determine write-in vote counts.

• The Secretary of State must notify county judges of probate by noon on the first Monday following the election if statewide write-in votes for any federal or state office meet the threshold for counting.