Panel approves bill requiring documentary proof of candidate eligibility after amendment

The subcommittee amended and approved House Bill 2613, a measure that would require candidates (and political parties in vetting duties) to submit documentary proof of eligibility for state and federal offices and authorize verification by the secretary of state, state election commission and county boards as specified in the bill.

Chairman Halsey, the bill’s sponsor, told the committee the bill aims to enforce existing eligibility requirements rather than add new qualifications. The panel heard a three-minute witness statement from JP Williams of the North America Law Center, who urged a “natural born citizen” test he described as inherited by parentage: “A natural born citizen is the natural offspring of American citizens. Period,” Williams said. Members probed constitutional and practical effects, with Representative Powell and others questioning the supremacy clause and whether states can alter federal office qualifications.

Josh of Legal Services told the committee his reading was that “this does not add any qualifications to any office. It is simply requiring you to meet the eligibility requirements and then prove them,” but he noted the bill’s unusual standard phrasing referencing proof “beyond any doubt.” Several members expressed concern about how that standard would be applied. After debate the committee voted 4 ayes to 3 noes and sent the bill on to the state and local full committee.