This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to allow citizens to vote in municipal elections in municipalities where they do not reside, provided they meet certain criteria. A new section, 3-1-3b, is introduced, requiring that voters must live in the county of the municipality and have paid a user or service fee imposed by that municipality within the year prior to the election. Nonresidents are limited to voting for at-large municipal positions and city-wide questions, and they must register with the county clerk before the voter registration deadline. The bill reinforces the "one person, one vote" principle, ensuring that no citizen can cast more than one vote in any municipal election.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Municipal Home Rule Program as a permanent initiative, enhancing the powers of the Municipal Home Rule Board and allowing municipalities to address service delivery challenges. It outlines the application process for municipalities, which includes public hearings and detailed plans identifying regulatory obstacles. The bill also introduces new definitions and provisions regarding municipal authority, including the ability to enact a municipal sales tax under specific conditions. Importantly, it allows citizens who pay service or user fees to vote in municipal elections, even if they do not reside in the municipality, thereby promoting greater civic engagement and representation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-1-3, 3-9-17, 8-1-2, 8-1-5a, 3-1-3b