DE HB351

Requires all candidates for either House of the General Assembly to obtain a criminal history background check from the State Bureau of Identification under Chapter 85 of Title 11 before appearing on primary, general, or write-in ballots.

Establishes that the State Bureau of Identification shall conduct state and federal criminal history record checks, with results provided to the Commissioner of Elections within 15 days of the applicant's request.

Makes all criminal history background check information received by the Commissioner of Elections confidential and not subject to public records disclosure under Chapter 100 of Title 29.

Designates the cost of criminal history background checks as an allowed candidate filing fee that may be paid from campaign funds as an authorized political committee expenditure.

Gives the Commissioner of Elections authority to determine whether candidates meet Delaware Constitutional qualifications under § 21, Article II before they can be considered candidates for either House of the General Assembly.

Takes effect January 1, 2023.