On March 25, five Massachusetts state representatives, all Democrats, introduced HB 4981. For 2020 only, it reduces the number of signatures to get on a primary ballot. The more important statewide offices now require 10,000 signatures, but the bill cuts that down to 3,300. The less important statewide offices now need 5,000, but the bill lowers those to 1,650. US House petitions would drop from 2,000 to 660 signatures.
The five sponsors are Patrick J. Kearney, Michelle Dubois, Maria Robinson, Nika Elugardo, and Denise Provost. So far the bill has not had a hearing. Petitions for 2020 primaries are due May 5.
What about general election petitions for minor party and independent candidates?
Also, if this Coronavirus situation does not clear up, even getting 1/3 the number of signatures may be really difficult.
The bill only covers primary petitions.
ONE Voter petition forms –
candidates and issues — mail in / E-Sigs
What about for state senate and representatives?