WV HB2966

Requires disclosure of "covered transfers" of $10,000 or more ($50,000 for affiliates) used for campaign-related disbursements such as independent expenditures and electioneering communications

Creates the "Smear Merchant Transparency and Accountability Act" to address "dark money" in political advertising by requiring transparency about funding sources for campaign communications

Mandates that recipients of covered transfers notify contributors within 48 hours to provide donor information, and prohibits using funds for campaign purposes until disclosure requirements are met

Requires disclosure of all donors contributing more than the maximum individual contribution limit within the previous 12-24 months, including name, address, occupation, and employer information

Establishes criminal penalties of $1,000 to $100,000 in fines and/or up to one year in jail for willful violations, and authorizes the Secretary of State to promulgate rules for implementation