This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to establish residency requirements for county surveyors. Specifically, it mandates that any county surveyor first elected or appointed after January 1, 2027, must be a state resident. The bill defines "state resident" as someone who is domiciled in West Virginia, which includes both physical presence and the intent to remain in the state. It outlines various factors that may demonstrate a person's residency, such as the address on their driver's license and their tax obligations in the state.
Additionally, the bill introduces provisions allowing land surveyors to request exemptions from the Ethics Commission if they wish to hold dual offices within the state. The commission may grant these exemptions on a case-by-case basis, provided certain criteria are met, such as the uniqueness of the public office held or the necessity of personal prestige for the position. The bill also clarifies that minimum standards for surveys established by the board will still apply, regardless of the exemptions provided.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 30-13A-11