The resolution proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the State of West Virginia, specifically targeting section one of article IV, which pertains to voting rights in elections. The amendment stipulates that only citizens of West Virginia who are also citizens of the United States shall be eligible to vote in elections held within the state. It outlines specific disqualifications for voting, including minors, individuals declared mentally incompetent, those convicted of treason, felony, or election-related bribery, and those who have not resided in the state and county for at least thirty days prior to voting. Additionally, it clarifies that members of the military stationed in West Virginia are not considered residents for voting purposes.
The resolution has been introduced and referred to the appropriate legislative committees, and it seeks to have the proposed amendment submitted to voters during the general election in 2026. The amendment is designated as "Amendment No. 1" and is officially titled the "Citizenship Requirement to Vote in West Virginia Elections Amendment." The summarized purpose of the amendment is to ensure that only citizens of the state who are also U.S. citizens are qualified to vote in West Virginia elections.