This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to allow voters who are not affiliated with a major political party to participate in primary elections by voting on the ballot of any political party. Specifically, it modifies sections 3-1-35 and 3-2-31 to clarify that independent voters or those affiliated with minor parties can request to vote in a major party's primary election. The bill stipulates that these voters will also receive separate ballots for nonpartisan candidates and public questions.
Key changes include the insertion of provisions that allow independent voters to vote in primary elections and the removal of language that previously restricted them from receiving party ballots. The bill emphasizes that political parties can determine their own rules regarding the participation of independent and unaffiliated voters in their primaries, thereby enhancing voter inclusivity in the electoral process.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 3-1-35, 3-2-31