The bill amends sections of the West Virginia Code to mandate that municipal elections be held on the same day as statewide elections. Specifically, it requires municipalities to either amend their existing ordinances or charters or adopt new ones to ensure that local elections coincide with regularly scheduled statewide primary or general elections. This change aims to streamline the electoral process and enhance voter participation by aligning local and state election dates.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that municipalities must negotiate agreements with their county commissions regarding the election date, officials, and registration books, while also sharing in the administrative costs of the elections. Municipalities that have charters requiring different election dates must amend those charters by July 1, 2032, to comply with the new law. The legislation also allows for adjustments to the terms of elected municipal officers to align with the new election schedule, provided these changes are approved by a majority of voters.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-1-29, 3-1-31
Committee Substitute: 3-1-29, 3-1-31, 8-5-5
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 3-1-29, 3-1-31, 8-5-5
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 3-1-29, 3-1-31, 8-5-5