MO HB171

Repeals and replaces section 78.090, RSMo, regarding primary elections for municipal candidates in cities organized under sections 78.010 to 78.400.

Allows cities to eliminate primary elections for mayor and councilman positions by order or ordinance and conduct general elections directly with candidates filing statements of candidacy with the city clerk.

Requires candidates to file signed, sworn statements confirming residency, voter eligibility, office eligibility, and willingness to serve if elected.

Directs the city clerk to notify the election authority to print official ballots with candidate names listed in the order their candidacy statements were filed.

Ballots must instruct voters to vote for the specific number of candidates to be elected and warn that overvoting invalidates the ballot.