WV HB3203

Requires special elections instead of gubernatorial appointments to fill vacancies in the state legislature when a member is prevented from taking office or is expelled by their legislative body

Changes how county commissioner and clerk of county commission vacancies are filled from appointment by the county commission to special elections

Special elections must include 30 days for candidate filing, followed by 60 days for campaigning, with voting conducted over 5 consecutive business days at county courthouses during normal business hours

No special election may be held if the vacancy notice is received within 90 days of a primary or general election

Candidates must be members of the same political party as the vacated seat and legally reside in the applicable legislative district or magisterial district