Bill > HB481

This bill modifies Georgia's election laws regarding the timing and scheduling of special elections to present questions to voters. The bill expands the dates on which special elections can be held, particularly in odd-numbered and even-numbered years. In odd-numbered years, special elections can now be held on the third Tuesday in March, the Tuesday after the first Monday in November, or on the date of any state-wide special primary or special election. In even-numbered years, special elections can be held on the date of the presidential preference primary, the third Tuesday in March (with a specific provision for sales and use tax questions before July 1, 2024), the date of the general primary, or the Tuesday after the first Monday in November. The bill also requires at least 29 days between the call for a special election and the election itself, with candidate qualification periods remaining open for a minimum of two and a half days. Additionally, for special elections held in conjunction with other state-wide elections, the bill modifies the requirement for calling such elections at least 90 days in advance, providing more flexibility in scheduling. The bill becomes effective upon gubernatorial approval or becoming law without approval.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70402