Bill > H862

This bill establishes a detailed recall procedure specifically for elected officials in the town of Sharon, Massachusetts. Under this legislation, at least 50 registered voters can initiate a recall process against an elected official for specific grounds including serious misconduct, such as felony conviction, failure to take the required oath, not completing ethics training, intentional violation of responsibilities, or having a poor attendance record that impairs governmental function. The bill outlines a multi-step process where petitioners must first file an affidavit of intent with the town clerk, who then verifies the signatures and grounds for recall. If certified, petitioners must then gather signatures from at least 10% of registered voters within 60 days. If sufficient signatures are obtained, the select board must schedule a recall election between 64 and 90 days after their vote, during which voters will first vote on whether to recall the official, and if a majority supports recall, then vote for a replacement candidate. The bill includes safeguards such as preventing recall attempts within the first or last six months of an official's term, and prohibiting a recalled official from being appointed to town office for two years. Notably, the bill explicitly protects officials from being recalled simply for their opinions or votes, ensuring they can make decisions without fear of retribution, while still maintaining accountability for serious misconduct.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H862