Bill > SB417

This bill reinstates the Presidential Preference Primary Election in Missouri, establishing a statewide primary to be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in April during presidential election years. The bill creates detailed provisions for how presidential candidates can be included on the primary ballot, requiring either a $50,000 filing fee (adjusted for inflation) or a petition signed by at least 5,000 registered Missouri voters. Candidates must file their request between specific timeframes, and the secretary of state will publish an official list of candidates. The primary will include all candidates for each party's nomination, along with an "uncommitted" voting option. After the primary, each party's state organization will conduct caucuses to choose national convention delegates. The state will cover the costs of the primary, with proportional cost-sharing if other elections are held on the same day. The bill also modifies existing election laws to accommodate the new primary, including allowing party challengers to collect and disclose party ballot information after polls close and permitting candidates to file for the presidential primary without being prohibited from seeking other offices simultaneously.

Government Affairs

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=120