HB 2611
Relating to allowing localities contiguous to the border of West Virginia to join the state via local elections
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill proposes a process for contiguous localities to join West Virginia as part of the state. Localities would need to hold a binding referendum to gauge public support, and the West Virginia Legislature would then need to approve the admission by a simple majority vote. Following approval by both the locality and the legislature, the localities would become part of West Virginia, with adjustments made to legislative representation. The bill also outlines procedures for notifying federal agencies, establishing tax obligations, and providing support to businesses and professionals transitioning to West Virginia regulations.
Key provisions
- Localities contiguous to West Virginia can petition to join the state.
- A binding referendum is required in the locality to gauge public support.
- The West Virginia Legislature must approve the admission by a simple majority vote.
- Legislative representation would be increased to account for the new localities.
- The Secretary of State will notify Congress and the Post Master General of the change.
- New localities must begin collecting state and county taxes on July 1st.
- A grace period will be provided for tax compliance.
- Businesses in the new localities will receive a six-month exemption from state licensing fees.
Who is affected
- Localities contiguous to West Virginia
- West Virginia Residents in those localities
- Businesses operating in those localities
- West Virginia Legislature
- Federal Agencies (Congress, Post Master General)
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