| This bill changes the definition of a write-in candidate and |
requires that the candidate file a declaration of write-in |
candidacy with the Secretary of State in order to be considered a |
valid write-in candidate and be included in the election |
tabulation. The bill clarifies the term of office for a |
registrar who is also a municipal clerk. The bill requires that |
a candidate who wishes to withdraw, for reason other than death |
or disqualification, must do so at least 60 days before the |
primary in order to be allowed to replace the candidate. The |
bill also allows student election clerks to be appointed to fill |
a vacancy in the office of election clerk. The bill moves the |
deadline for a municipality to hold a hearing on consolidating or |
establishing new voting districts from 60 to 90 days before the |
election. The bill also changes the deadline for requesting a |
recount from 7 business days to 5 business days after the |
election. The bill removes the Secretary of State's |
responsibility for assisting the Commission on Governmental |
Ethics and Campaign Practices with its duties under the Maine |
Revised Statutes, Title 21-A. The bill makes other technical |
changes that correct inconsistencies with other parts of the |
laws. |