Bill > HB1678

This bill amends Oklahoma election law to modify procedures for resolving tie votes in primary and general elections. Specifically, the bill updates the process for selecting a nominee or electee when candidates receive an equal number of votes. The new law provides detailed guidelines for conducting a random selection (by lot) when a tie occurs, including requirements for notifying candidates, conducting the drawing, and selecting a winner. Key changes include mandating that candidate names be written on separate pieces of paper and placed in small opaque containers within a larger transparent container, which will be tumbled to ensure randomness. The bill also specifies that candidates may designate a witness to attend the selection process, and establishes that the drawing must occur on a weekday between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. An important exception is added that these procedures do not apply to elections of state officers as defined by the Oklahoma Constitution. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, providing election officials and potential candidates with ample time to understand and prepare for the new tie-breaking procedures.

Government Affairs, Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1678&Session=2500