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HB 2400

Prohibiting the delivery of unsolicited absentee ballot applications to any person who has not specifically requested one from the county clerk

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Brooks and 10 co-sponsors

House Bill 2400 restricts unsolicited absentee ballot applications to enhance voting integrity, ensuring only requested applications are sent, while aiding first responders with electronic voting.

On 2nd reading, House Calendar
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Bill Summary · HB 2400

Summary of House Bill 2400

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 2400
  • Title: Prohibiting the delivery of unsolicited absentee ballot applications to any person who has not specifically requested one from the county clerk
  • Status: On 2nd reading, House Calendar
  • Introduced: February 14, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Elections

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2400 aims to amend the absentee ballot application process in West Virginia by prohibiting the unsolicited delivery of absentee ballot applications. The bill seeks to enhance the integrity of the absentee voting process by ensuring that applications are only provided to voters who specifically request them. Additionally, it introduces provisions for first responders to vote electronically under certain emergency conditions.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant changes to the absentee voting process:

  1. Application Availability:

    • Absentee ballot applications must be available at the county clerk's office and on the Secretary of State's official website.

  2. Prohibition of Unsolicited Applications:

    • It is unlawful for any person, including election officials, to mail or deliver absentee ballot applications to voters unless specifically requested by the voter, a member of the voter's immediate family, or a caregiver.

  3. Limit on Unsolicited Applications:

    • No individual may provide more than 10 unsolicited absentee ballot applications to any voter.

  4. Penalties:

    • A misdemeanor penalty is established for individuals convicted of violating the prohibition against unsolicited applications.

  5. First Responder Provisions:

    • The bill defines "qualified first responders" and allows them to vote by electronic absentee ballot in specific emergency situations.
    • It outlines the process for submitting and accepting absentee voting applications for qualified first responders.

  6. Application Processing:

    • The bill specifies the timeline for accepting completed absentee ballot applications, including different deadlines for first responders and other voters.

Impact

  • Voters: The bill primarily affects voters by restricting the unsolicited distribution of absentee ballot applications, which may reduce confusion and potential misuse.
  • Election Officials: Election officials will need to adjust their practices to comply with the new regulations regarding absentee ballot applications.
  • First Responders: The provisions for electronic voting will benefit qualified first responders, ensuring they can participate in elections even during emergencies.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • Introduced on February 14, 2025, and referred to the House Judiciary Committee.
    • Reported by the committee on February 24, 2025.
    • Currently on the 2nd reading in the House Calendar as of March 1, 2025.

This bill represents a significant shift in how absentee voting is managed in West Virginia, focusing on voter request and eligibility while providing necessary accommodations for first responders.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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