This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to allow nonresidents to vote in municipal elections under certain conditions. A new section, 3-1-3b, establishes eligibility criteria for nonresident voting, which includes residing in the same county as the municipality, paying specific fees, or owning property or a business within the municipality. Nonresidents are limited to voting for at-large municipal positions and city-wide questions, and they must verify their qualifications with the county 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, it prohibits municipalities in the Municipal Home Rule Program from enacting regulations that conflict with these new voting rules and establishes penalties for illegal voting practices.

Furthermore, the bill makes the Municipal Home Rule Program a permanent initiative, allowing municipalities to propose and amend local regulations to better serve their constituents. The Municipal Home Rule Board will have enhanced powers to review and approve municipal plans, and municipalities will be required to pay an annual assessment to support the board's operations. The bill also allows citizens who pay service or user fees, own property, or operate a business within a municipality to vote in that municipality's elections, regardless of residency. It mandates transparency by requiring municipalities to report their progress to the Municipal Home Rule Board and the Joint Committee on Government and Finance annually, while ensuring compliance with state and federal laws regarding the types of ordinances that can be enacted.

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