Loading chat...

WV SB489

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/14/2025

Primary Sponsor

Jack Woodrum

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2025 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Establishes formal procedures for filing election law violation complaints with the Secretary of State, requiring complaints to be written, notarized, sworn, and include specific details such as incident description, witness information, timing, location, and supporting documentation

  • Creates a two-tier investigation process where the Secretary of State conducts informal investigations using public records or formal investigations with subpoena power, sworn interrogatories, and depositions, then submits findings to the State Election Commission

  • Empowers the State Election Commission to dismiss complaints lacking probable cause, issue letters of instruction, propose settlement agreements, or refer violations to prosecuting authorities

  • Requires the Attorney General to provide legal and investigative support upon request, and mandates prosecuting authorities to present alleged criminal violations to a grand jury no later than the next court term after receiving a report

  • Authorizes the Secretary of State to promulgate emergency and legislative rules to implement these procedures and to consolidate related complaints for efficient resolution

Legislative Description

Relating to election law violation complaints and procedures

Elections

Last Action

Referred to Rules on 1st reading

3/4/2025

Committee Referrals

Judiciary2/14/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available