This bill amends various sections of the Code of West Virginia to allow non-residents to vote in municipal elections under specific conditions. The new section 3-1-3b outlines eligibility criteria, which include residing in the same county as the municipality, paying certain fees, or owning property or a business within the municipality. Non-residents are restricted to voting for at-large municipal positions and city-wide questions, and they must verify their qualifications with the county commission clerk prior to voting. The bill reinforces the "one person, one vote" principle to prevent multiple votes by a single citizen in municipal elections.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Municipal Home Rule Program as a permanent initiative, detailing the powers of the Municipal Home Rule Board to oversee and evaluate municipal governance plans. It prohibits municipalities participating in this program from enacting regulations that conflict with the new voting rules and allows for voting in multiple municipalities during the same election cycle. The Secretary of State is empowered to create rules for nonresident voting and the canvassing of such votes, while penalties for illegal voting practices are also included. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance civic engagement for non-residents while ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-1-3, 3-9-17, 8-1-2, 8-1-5a, 3-1-3b