PDC authorizes expedited reconfiguration rules and files proposed slate‑card rules, schedules hearing

The commission approved two rulemaking actions on Dec. 11. First, it authorized staff to file expedited rules to implement statutory reconfiguration and to adopt those technical edits so the rules could take effect Jan. 1, 2026, synchronizing rules with statute. Staff said the expedited package was filed Oct. 22 and can be adopted as soon as Dec. 23 under the expedited process if no objections arise.

Second, the commission authorized the promulgation of proposed permanent rules concerning use of slate cards to state positions on ballot propositions. The slate‑card rulemaking originated from an Administrative Procedure Act petition filed by the state Democratic Party and joined by the state Republican Party; emergency rules covered the February cycle and staff now propose permanent rules. The commission set a public hearing for Feb. 12, 2026 and authorized staff to file the proposed rules to begin the permanent rulemaking process.

Both actions were framed as procedural steps: the expedited filing is technical to align rules with new statutory language, and the slate‑card filing initiates the public process for permanent rules after emergency rules expired. Commissioners moved and seconded both items and approved them by voice vote.