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HB 2489

Providing for election reform and protections

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jim Butler and 10 co-sponsors

HB 2489 enhances election transparency in West Virginia by ensuring public access to voting data, improving electronic voting security, and empowering voters against fraud.

To House Judiciary
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Bill Summary · HB 2489

Summary of House Bill 2489: Providing for Election Reform and Protections

Bill Number: HB 2489
Introduced: February 3, 2025
Status: To House Judiciary
Classification: Bill
Subject: Elections

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2489 aims to implement significant reforms in the electoral process within the state of West Virginia. The bill seeks to enhance transparency, security, and accountability in elections by establishing new regulations regarding the handling and disclosure of election-related data, as well as improving the integrity of electronic voting systems.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions:

  1. Public Election Related Information and Data:

    • Defines "Public Election Related Information and Data" to include all data within the Election Management System database, excluding proprietary database schema.
    • Mandates that this data, including cast vote records (CVRs), be made publicly accessible under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

  2. Maintenance and Disclosure:

    • Requires the maintenance of public election data and allows registered voters to request this information without needing to reference the FOIA explicitly.
    • Exempts the state and its agencies from claiming exemptions under the FOIA for requests related to this data.

  3. Electronic Voting System Regulations:

    • Implements restrictions on certain electronic voting systems and outlines procedures for hand counting ballots as a contingency.
    • Mandates random physical inspections and internal operating code inspections of electronic voting systems to ensure their integrity.

  4. Addressing Potential Election Fraud:

    • Establishes a procedure for voters to report suspected illegal voting and outlines the handling of affidavits related to such claims.
    • Defines "potential election fraud" and specifies actions to be taken if fraud is suspected, including forensic investigations.

Impact

  • Voters: The bill is designed to empower voters by providing them with greater access to election-related data, thereby enhancing transparency in the electoral process.
  • Election Officials: Local election officials will need to adapt to new requirements for data maintenance and reporting, as well as comply with enhanced security measures for electronic voting systems.
  • Political Landscape: By increasing transparency and accountability, the bill may influence public confidence in the electoral process and potentially affect voter turnout and engagement.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 3, 2025, and has undergone several legislative actions, including referrals to various committees and the addition of co-sponsors.
  • The effective date for the provisions of the bill is set for January 1, 2026, allowing time for implementation and adjustment by relevant stakeholders.

In summary, HB 2489 represents a comprehensive effort to reform election processes in West Virginia, focusing on transparency, security, and the integrity of the electoral system.

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

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