SB 327 Summary

• Beginning with the 2012 election cycle, elections for county sheriff must be conducted on a nonpartisan basis, with candidates unable to declare party affiliation on their declaration of candidacy.

• If more than two candidates qualify for the ballot, all names appear on the Primary Election ballot; only the top two vote-getters advance to the General Election ballot if no candidate receives more than 50% of primary votes.

• Removes the requirement that candidates for county sheriff be registered voters of a political party for six months prior to filing; party affiliation requirements remain for other state and county offices.

• Amends procedures for substitute candidates in case of death, including provisions for special elections for county sheriff candidates if death occurs after ballot printing begins.

• Effective November 1, 2011.