HB 5023
Relating to permitting a citizen of this state to vote in the election of a municipality in which the citizen does not reside
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill amends West Virginia code to allow residents who do not live in a municipality to vote in that municipality’s elections under specific conditions. It establishes requirements for non-residents to qualify, including paying user fees to the municipality and contacting the county commission clerk. The bill also outlines rules for how non-resident votes will be handled, such as providing ballots at polling places and prohibiting multiple votes. Furthermore, it reinforces the ‘one person – one vote’ principle and prohibits municipalities with the Municipal Home Rule Program from enacting ordinances contrary to the bill’s provisions.
Key provisions
- A citizen must pay user fees to the municipality where they wish to vote to qualify.
- Non-residents must contact the county commission clerk before the election to establish their eligibility.
- Municipalities must provide paper ballots for non-resident voters.
- The Secretary of State can create rules for nonresident voting.
- Municipalities participating in the Municipal Home Rule Program are restricted in their ordinances.
- Non-residents can only cast one vote per election.
- A qualified citizen voting in multiple municipalities during the same election cycle is not prohibited.
- The bill defines key terms related to voting and municipal governance.
Who is affected
- Residents of West Virginia
- Municipalities in West Virginia
- County Commissions
- The Secretary of State
- Voters in West Virginia
Notable changes
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