The proposed bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new article that mandates the display of the national motto, "In God We Trust," in state office buildings. It defines key terms such as "agency office," "national motto," and "state office building," and specifies that the motto must be displayed in conspicuous public areas of these buildings as well as within individual agency offices. The bill outlines display specifications, stating that the motto must be durable, at least 8.5 by 11 inches in size, and may include a depiction of the U.S. flag, but prohibits any additional language or imagery.

Furthermore, the bill restricts funding for these displays to private donations only, explicitly stating that no state funds may be used. It also allows the Department of Administration to issue nonbinding guidance regarding the implementation of these requirements. The effective date for the bill is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-10-1, 5-10-2, 5-10-3, 5-10-4, 5-10-5, 5-10-6, 5-10-7