The bill amends various sections of the West Virginia Code concerning governmental ethics, particularly the duties and authorities of the West Virginia Ethics Commission. Key changes include a requirement for commission members to recuse themselves from decisions where they have a financial interest, the establishment of an electronic registration and reporting system for lobbyists by December 31, 2025, and an increase in the frequency of lobbying activity reports. The bill also mandates that the Ethics Commission provide resources and information on its website for public and lobbyist use, while enhancing the commission's powers to initiate investigations and issue subpoenas.

Additionally, the legislation clarifies lobbying regulations by establishing guidelines for lobbyists regarding registration and reporting obligations. It requires lobbyists receiving compensation from multiple sources to file separate notices of representation for each client, mandates the filing of amended registration statements within one week of employment changes, and stipulates that certain public officials are prohibited from registering as lobbyists for one year after leaving public service. The bill outlines quarterly reporting requirements for lobbyists, introduces penalties for late filings and false statements, and addresses grassroots lobbying campaigns by requiring sponsors to register and report expenditures exceeding specified thresholds. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in lobbying activities while improving the functionality of the Ethics Commission in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 6B-2-2, 6B-3-2, 6B-3-5
Engrossed Version: 6B-2-2, 6B-3-2, 6B-3-5
Enrolled Version: 6B-2-1, 6B-2-2, 6B-2-12, 6B-3-1, 6B-3-2, 6B-3-4, 6B-3-5, 6B-3-7, 6B-3-9