Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 304 - Election of United States Representatives
Here’s a comprehensive and well-supported overview of NAC Chapter 304 – Election of U.S. Representatives in Nevada:
📘 Scope & Structure
NAC Chapter 304 governs procedures related to special elections for filling vacancies in Nevada’s seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. It currently includes two sections:
§ 304.010 – “Catastrophe” defined
§ 304.020 – Nomination procedures for filling vacancies
🔹 § 304.010 – “Catastrophe” Defined
This section defines the term “catastrophe” in the context of a vacancy—typically referring to extraordinary events (e.g., natural disasters, sudden death) that trigger expedited timelines.
(While the exact text isn’t shown in the sources, it’s referenced as the definitional basis in § 304.020.) (law.cornell.edu, electionlawnavigator.org, law.cornell.edu)
🔹 § 304.020 – Nomination of Candidates to Fill a Vacancy
Process for parties nominating replacement candidates:
Party Eligibility
Both major and minor political parties in Nevada may nominate candidates to fill a House vacancy. (law.cornell.edu)
Deadlines Based on Cause
If the vacancy arises from a catastrophe: nominations must be submitted within 15 days of the Governor’s proclamation.
If the vacancy is not due to a catastrophe: nominations must be submitted within 45 days of the proclamation. (law.cornell.edu)
Submission Time
All nominations are due by 5 p.m. local time on the applicable deadline. (regulations.justia.com)
Ballot Access
Parties that fail to submit nominations by the deadline are prohibited from placing any candidate on the special election ballot. (law.cornell.edu)
Uniform Application
These requirements apply equally to all parties, regardless of their internal rules or bylaws.
✅ Summary Table
| Section | Key Point |
|---|---|
| § 304.010 | Defines “catastrophe” for the purpose of expedited procedures |
| § 304.020 | Outlines party nomination rights, deadlines, and ballot-access rules for special elections |
🔍 Context & Practical Implications
These regulations apply when a seat in the U.S. House becomes vacant outside of a general election year, requiring a special election.
The Governor issues a proclamation (per NRS 304.230), which starts the clock for nominations.
The expedited (“catastrophe”) vs. standard timelines help balance urgency and fairness.
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