Bill > H599

This bill, concerning the filing of vacancies for nominated candidates in public office, amends Chapter 54 of the General Laws to ensure elected representation. Specifically, it addresses situations where a candidate becomes ineligible or dies after being nominated for certain high-level offices, including governor, state secretary, attorney general, and federal or state legislative positions. If a candidate dies after winning a primary election for these offices, their name will remain on the ballot, and any votes cast for them will be counted; if they receive enough votes to be elected, the resulting vacancy will be filled according to existing procedures. The bill also adds provisions to Section 116 of Chapter 54, stipulating that if a person appears to be chosen for an office but is deceased, the office will be filled as if there were a vacancy.