The bill amends the eligibility requirements for voting in West Virginia, specifically addressing the criteria that individuals must meet to participate in elections. It stipulates that citizens must be registered to vote, at least 18 years old (with provisions for those turning 18 by the next general election), and not deemed totally mentally incompetent by a court. Additionally, it clarifies that individuals convicted of treason, a felony, or election-related bribery may only regain their voting rights if they have fully discharged their sentence or received a pardon.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a process for requalifying individuals who have been deemed mentally incompetent, allowing them to vote again upon certification from the circuit court. It also specifies that a person convicted of a disqualifying crime cannot vote from the date of adjudication, regardless of any pending legal actions, and clarifies that individuals with deferred criminal proceedings are not considered convicted. These changes aim to provide clearer guidelines on voting eligibility and the restoration of voting rights in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-1-3
Committee Substitute: 3-1-3
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 3-1-3