This bill proposes an amendment to the Code of West Virginia, specifically section 3-1-17, to extend the term of office for sheriffs from four years to six years. The new legal language inserted into the current law states that beginning with the general election in 2028, and every sixth year thereafter, a sheriff will be elected. This change aims to provide sheriffs with a longer term to enhance stability and continuity in law enforcement leadership.
In addition to the changes regarding the sheriff's term, the bill maintains the existing election schedule for other county and district officers, including judges and magistrates, which are set to be elected on a nonpartisan basis. The bill does not propose any deletions to the current law aside from the adjustments made to the sheriff's term. Overall, the legislation seeks to modify the election cycle for sheriffs while preserving the established election framework for other officials.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 3-1-17