Bill > HB0173

This bill modifies Wyoming's election laws for independent candidates by introducing several key changes. First, independent candidates must now swear that they are unaffiliated with or not registered in a major political party when filing their nomination petition. The bill increases the signature requirements for independent candidates seeking election, raising the threshold from 2% to 3% for statewide and countywide partisan offices, and from 2% to 5% for district partisan elections. The signature calculation method is also adjusted, now based on votes cast in the last general election instead of registered voter counts. Additionally, the bill extends the filing deadline for independent candidates, requiring them to give notice 81 days (instead of 70 days) before the general election and providing a 14-day window after giving notice to file their actual petition. These changes aim to standardize and potentially make it slightly more challenging for independent candidates to qualify for ballot access, while ensuring they demonstrate a certain level of community support. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/HB0173