NC S497

Allows a candidate to withdraw their notice of candidacy after the third business day deadline if they are seeking election to a different office instead.

Maintains the existing rule that candidates can withdraw before the close of business on the third business day prior to the filing deadline without additional restrictions.

Preserves existing consequences for candidates who do not withdraw by the deadline, including ballot placement and ineligibility for filing fee refunds.

Effective upon enactment and applies to all elections held on or after the bill becomes law.