This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the verification process for candidates seeking to run in partisan elections. It mandates that the Secretary of State, upon receiving certificates of announcement, must electronically verify each candidate's party affiliation, residency, and correct district. If a candidate's party affiliation does not match what is stated in their certificate, their filing will be refused. Additionally, the bill introduces a provision allowing candidates who are denied certification the right to appeal the Secretary of State's decision to the Supreme Court of Appeals within 10 days following the close of the filing period.

The bill also includes several technical amendments, such as the reorganization of sections and the addition of new subsections that clarify the responsibilities of election officials and the rights of candidates. Notably, it specifies that the Supreme Court of Appeals has original jurisdiction over these appeals, ensuring a clear legal pathway for candidates to contest decisions made by the Secretary of State. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the candidate verification process while providing a mechanism for candidates to challenge unfavorable decisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-5-7