Independent candidate requirements.

HB 173 modifies requirements for independent candidates running for partisan offices in Wyoming. It requires candidates to swear they are unaffiliated with major parties or not registered with one, increases the signature requirement from 2% to 5% of votes cast for the relevant office in the last general election, and extends the petition filing deadline from 70 to 81 days before the primary election. These changes directly affect independent candidates seeking statewide, county, or district offices. The bill takes effect July 1, 2025.