Continuity in Representation Act of 2005

The Continuity in Representation Act of 2005 establishes a fast-track process for filling mass vacancies in the U.S. House of Representatives following a national catastrophe. If more than 100 House seats become vacant simultaneously, states would be required to hold emergency special elections within 49 days to ensure the legislative branch can continue to function.

For citizens, this means that in the event of a large-scale emergency, the typical months-long process for electing new representatives would be condensed into seven weeks. The bill mandates that political parties select candidates quickly and requires states to use expedited methods, such as electronic transmission, to ensure that overseas military members and citizens living abroad are able to receive and cast their ballots in time to be counted.