The bill amends sections 8-4-8 and 8-5-5 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, to facilitate the amendment of city charters and to align municipal election practices with state law. It establishes a process for cities to propose charter amendments, requiring public hearings and notifications to voters. If no objections are raised, the amendments can be adopted by ordinance and must be certified to the West Virginia Secretary of State. Additionally, if objections are filed, the governing body has the option to either abandon the proposed amendments or submit them for voter approval in the next municipal election.

Furthermore, the bill allows municipalities to amend or supersede existing charter provisions regarding election days and transitional term lengths to ensure compliance with state law by July 1, 2032. It permits cities to implement changes to election schedules and officer terms without the usual procedural requirements, provided these changes are aimed at achieving conformity with state regulations. The bill also mandates that municipalities share the administrative costs of elections with county commissions, based on the proportion of registered voters.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-4-8, 8-5-5
Committee Substitute: 8-4-8, 8-5-5
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 8-4-8, 8-5-5
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 8-4-8, 8-5-5