This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 1-1-6, to the Code of West Virginia, which outlines the process for admitting localities or territories that are contiguous to West Virginia's borders into the state. The admission process requires a binding referendum in the locality, followed by a simple majority vote in the West Virginia Legislature. If both the local voters and the Legislature approve the admission, the Secretary of State must notify Congress and the Post Master General of the change, and the Legislature will adjust representation accordingly.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the newly admitted localities regarding taxation, business licensing, and professional re-licensing. Citizens will receive notice about where to send their state and county taxes, with a grace period before enforcement begins. Businesses can register without charge until the end of the year of admission, and professionals will have a grandfather provision for their existing licenses. The Legislature is also tasked with adopting further provisions to facilitate the efficient integration of new localities into the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 1-1-6