The bill proposes significant amendments to the Code of West Virginia concerning early voting procedures, voter registration, and associated criminal penalties. It establishes clear deadlines for voter registration applications, requiring online submissions by 11:59 p.m. and in-person registrations to be completed by the close of business at county clerks' offices. Additionally, it mandates that individuals registering by mail must provide identification when voting. The bill introduces new criminal penalties for actions such as intentionally interfering with voter registration applications or coercing individuals to register to vote, thereby enhancing the integrity of the electoral process.

Moreover, the bill requires state agencies that provide public assistance or services to individuals with disabilities to offer voter registration services, detailing the responsibilities of designated employees to ensure effective administration. It also outlines procedures for handling voter registration confirmations, including sending notices to voters who may have changed their residence and implementing systematic confirmation for those who have not updated their registration or voted in the past four years. Enhanced penalties for unlawful registration practices are included, with specific consequences for registrars or clerks who engage in coercive practices, as well as for individuals who vote in person after casting an absentee ballot. Overall, the bill aims to streamline voter registration while ensuring compliance with federal regulations and improving the integrity of the voting process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-2-6, 3-2-10, 3-2-13, 3-2-25, 3-2-32, 3-2-34, 3-3-3, 3-3-9