OH HJR18

Amends Section 11 of Article II of the Ohio Constitution to require special elections to fill vacancies in the Ohio General Assembly instead of the current appointment method.

Vacancies occurring before or during the first twenty months of a Senate term are filled by special election for only the remainder of the term expiring December 31 following the next general election in an even-numbered year.

Members of the same political party as the person last elected to the vacant seat conduct the special election by adoption of a resolution requiring a majority affirmative vote while the chamber is in session.

The governor issues writs of election directing a special primary election followed by a special general election, each to be held not later than the next available primary, special, or general election day.

The state bears the entire cost of all special primary elections and special elections held under this provision.