Bill > HB2057

This bill establishes a new process for filling vacancies in the offices of United States Senator, State Treasurer, and Commissioner of Insurance in Kansas. When a vacancy occurs, a joint committee on vacancy appointments will be created, consisting of 14 members from both the senate and house of representatives, with representation from majority and minority parties. The committee will receive nominations from legislators, conduct public hearings, and submit a report identifying five nominees for consideration. The legislature will then hold a joint session to vote on these nominees, with each nominee being considered separately by voice vote. The goal is to select three candidates, and the governor must then appoint one of these three candidates within two calendar days of receiving the concurrent resolution. To be considered, a nominee must typically be registered with the same political party as the incumbent for the two preceding general elections, ensuring a degree of political continuity. The bill also specifies detailed procedural rules for the nomination, voting, and appointment process, including provisions for what happens if fewer than three nominees are approved. Ultimately, this legislation aims to provide a more structured and transparent method for filling important state and federal government vacancies.

Government Affairs

Elections (H)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2057/