This bill aims to establish a new article in the West Virginia Code that outlines the procedures for election observers during elections, including their eligibility, qualifications, and the responsibilities of the Secretary of State in proposing legislative rules. The article specifies that political parties, candidates, and third-party organizations are allowed to have two observers at every stage of the election process to ensure transparency. It also states that any registered voter in West Virginia can serve as an observer, provided they present a letter of appointment from the relevant political entity and identification if requested.

Additionally, the bill details the qualifications and access rights of election observers, including the requirement for them to wear an "Official Observer" badge and the conditions under which they can observe various election activities. Observers are granted access to significant election processes, such as the opening and closing of voting locations, ballot transport, and ballot counting, while maintaining the confidentiality of individual votes. The Secretary of State is tasked with proposing rules to standardize these procedures, ensuring that the election process remains transparent and open to public observation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-1D-1, 3-1D-2, 3-1D-3, 3-1D-4