HB 5217
Providing for a filing fee for a write-in candidate
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill establishes a filing fee for candidates who choose to run as write-in candidates in West Virginia elections. The fee must be paid when the candidate submits their certificate of announcement to the appropriate filing officer. An exception is made for candidates filing under ‘forma pauperis’ – meaning those with limited income – who will not be required to pay the fee. The bill outlines the process for submitting the certificate and ensures that write-in candidates are officially certified and their names are posted for voters.
Key provisions
- Write-in candidates must file a certificate of announcement with the Secretary of State.
- Candidates must provide specific information in the certificate, including their name, address, and a sworn statement.
- The filing deadline for the certificate is the 49th day before the election, with exceptions for vacancies.
- Write-in candidates must pay a filing fee, except for those filing ‘forma pauperis’.
- The filing officer certifies eligible write-in candidates.
- Certified candidates' names are posted to county clerks and election officials.
- Absentee voters and precinct locations will be notified of write-in candidates.
- The bill amends existing code to reflect these changes.
Who is affected
- Write-in candidates
- West Virginia voters
- Political parties
- County clerks
- Election officials
Notable changes
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours