Bill > HB0458

This bill updates Utah's election laws regarding candidate petitions and signature gathering processes, primarily focusing on how candidates can get on primary and general election ballots. The bill makes several key changes, including extending the signature gathering period from 14 to 21 days, modifying petition signature requirements, and clarifying verification procedures for candidate signatures. Specifically, the bill requires county clerks to verify signatures, adding provisions about which signatures can be counted and how they should be verified. For statewide and district races, candidates must collect signatures from registered voters who are permitted to vote in their party's primary election, with specific signature thresholds for different types of offices. The bill also adds more detailed requirements for petition forms, such as including the county of residence and a notice about voter eligibility. Additionally, the bill provides different verification procedures for federal, constitutional, and multicounty offices, where county clerks will count signatures and report to the lieutenant governor. The changes aim to make the candidate petition process more transparent and standardized, with clearer guidelines for signature collection and verification. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0458.html