This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to prohibit voters who are not affiliated with a major political party from voting in the primary elections of those parties. Specifically, it clarifies that voters must be registered as affiliated with a major political party to receive that party's primary ballot. The bill introduces new language stating that voters registered as "independent," unaffiliated with any political party, or affiliated with parties not recognized as major political parties will not be allowed to vote in any party's primary election. Instead, these voters will receive separate ballots for nonpartisan candidates and public questions.

Additionally, the bill modifies the provisions regarding the furnishing of ballots in both general and primary elections. It specifies that in primary elections, voters will receive the ballot corresponding to their registered political party, along with any separate ballots for nonpartisan candidates and public questions. The bill also includes provisions for updating voter registration at polling places for those who have changed their residence within the county, ensuring that they can still vote without challenge. Overall, the bill aims to reinforce the exclusivity of primary elections to party-affiliated voters.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-1-35, 3-2-31