This bill proposes amendments to sections 3-8-5 and 3-8-5a of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, aimed at regulating candidate expenditures and disbursements in elections. The key provision introduced in the bill stipulates that the total expenditures and disbursements made by candidates for state or local offices shall not exceed the approximate salary payable for the office they are seeking. This new limitation is intended to create a more equitable financial landscape for candidates and to reduce the influence of money in political campaigns.

In addition to the expenditure limits, the bill also outlines detailed recordkeeping and financial reporting requirements for candidates and political committees. Candidates are required to maintain comprehensive accounts of all financial transactions related to their campaigns and to file itemized sworn statements at specified intervals. The amendments also reinforce the necessity for transparency in campaign financing by mandating that contributions and expenditures be thoroughly documented and reported, ensuring compliance with the new expenditure cap. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the integrity of the electoral process in West Virginia by imposing stricter financial controls on candidates.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-8-5, 3-8-5a