The bill amends West Virginia's election laws to establish a program that allows junior and senior students from secondary educational institutions, including those who are homeschooled, to serve as election officials. To qualify, these students must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being a registered voter, maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0, and obtaining written approval from their parents and school principals if their service coincides with school days. Additionally, only one student from each political party may serve as an election official per precinct, and students will not be marked absent from school for their service.

The bill also outlines the general eligibility requirements for all election officials, which include being a registered voter, being able to read and write in English, and not having any disqualifying relationships with candidates or prior convictions related to election laws. Furthermore, it provides the county commission with the authority to suspend an election official's eligibility for various infractions, such as failing to appear at the polling place or being under the influence while serving. This legislation aims to engage students in the electoral process while ensuring the integrity and functionality of election operations in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-1-28
Committee Substitute: 3-1-28
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 3-1-28
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 3-1-28