SB 550
Providing for nonpartisan election of commission members
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill proposes to change the way members of the West Virginia Public Service Commission are selected. Currently, commissioners are appointed, but this bill would establish a system of nonpartisan elections for these positions. Commissioners would be elected to six-year terms, with initial elections occurring in 2026, 2028, and 2030, and subsequent regular elections every year a term expires. The bill also addresses how vacancies would be filled and includes provisions for completing existing terms of appointed commissioners.
Key provisions
- Establishes nonpartisan elections for Public Service Commission members.
- Commissioners will be elected at-large from the entire state.
- Initial elections will occur in 2026, 2028, and 2030, with staggered terms.
- Subsequent regular elections will be held every year a commissioner’s term expires.
- Provides for election of a commission chair through a nonpartisan election.
- Sets requirements for candidates seeking a commission seat.
- Addresses the process for filling commission vacancies, including those arising from appointments.
- Specifies the terms of office for commissioners (six years).
Who is affected
- West Virginia residents
- Public Service Commission members
- Voters in West Virginia
- Individuals seeking to serve on the Public Service Commission
- The Public Service Commission of West Virginia
Notable changes
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