MO SB282

Establishes special elections to fill vacancies in statewide offices (lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, state auditor, state treasurer) rather than gubernatorial appointments, with the governor taking charge until the elected successor qualifies.

Requires candidates for collector, county treasurer, and county collector-treasurer to be at least 21 years old, residents for one year prior to filing, registered voters, current on all tax payments, and provide surety bond affidavits.

Eliminates mandatory primary elections in cities organized under sections 78.010-78.400, allowing candidates to file statements of candidacy directly with the city clerk for placement on general ballots.

Adds new election offenses including discouraging candidates from filing to eliminate special elections, steals sample ballots, and false statements regarding tax delinquency or bonding requirements, with penalties of up to one year imprisonment or $2,500 fine.

Increases presidential primary filing fees to $5,000 for elections on or before December 1, 2012, and $10,000 for elections thereafter, and creates new recall provisions for ambulance district board members requiring 25% of gubernatorial election voters' signatures.