The bill proposes significant amendments to the Code of West Virginia, focusing on early voting procedures, voter registration processes, and the establishment of criminal penalties for unlawful registration activities. Key changes include the specification of deadlines for voter registration applications, which must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. for online registration or by the close of business at county clerks' offices. New provisions require individuals registering to vote by mail to present identification, while allowing for provisional ballots for those who do not meet these requirements. The bill also designates specific state agencies to enhance voter registration services and ensures compliance with federal regulations, while implementing measures to prevent coercion in the registration process and establishing penalties for interference or falsification of applications.

Additionally, the bill mandates the mailing of confirmation notices to voters who may have changed their residence, requiring county clerks to send these notices by December 31. The statewide voter registration database must be updated to reflect the mailing of these notices and any responses received. Voters who do not respond or update their registration by February 1 will be designated as inactive and must affirm their current residence when voting. The bill introduces new penalties for unlawful registration practices, including coercion and payment for voter registration, and establishes stricter penalties for individuals who vote in person after voting by absentee ballot, classifying such actions as felonies. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the integrity of the voting process and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.

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