HB1489 Summary

• Elevates petition fraud from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony and expands the definition to include printing false information on petitions by signers without disability assistance.

• Establishes the State Board of Election Commissioners' authority to certify ballot titles and popular names for statewide initiative and referendum petitions, with authority to reject misleading ballot language.

• Requires sponsors of initiatives and referendums to file original drafts with the Secretary of State before circulation and receive a file-marked copy to begin gathering signatures.

• Implements comprehensive requirements for paid canvassers including criminal background checks, registration with the Secretary of State, training on election law, and submission of signed statements affirming compliance with legal requirements.

• Allows qualified electors and petition sponsors to petition the Supreme Court to challenge the sufficiency of signatures or certification of ballot titles and popular names for statewide petitions, and permits challenges to constitutional amendments proposed by the General Assembly.