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HB 2078

Requiring candidates to live in the state or local election district for the office for which they are seeking

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rick Hillenbrand and 2 co-sponsors

House Bill 2078 requires candidates for state and local offices in West Virginia to live in their election district, ensuring stronger ties to their communities.

To House Legal Services
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Bill Summary · HB 2078

Summary of House Bill 2078

Bill Number: HB 2078
Title: Requiring candidates to live in the state or local election district for the office for which they are seeking
Status: To House Legal Services
Introduced: February 12, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Elections

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2078 aims to ensure that candidates for state, county, or local offices in West Virginia have their principal place of residence within the election district they seek to represent. The bill seeks to strengthen the connection between elected officials and their constituents by mandating that candidates demonstrate a genuine commitment to the communities they wish to serve.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new section to the Code of West Virginia, specifically §3-1-2b, which includes the following key provisions:

  • Residence Requirement: All candidates must have their principal residence within the election district for the office they are seeking.

  • Definition of Principal Residence: The term "principal residence" is defined as the domicile of the candidate, which encompasses both physical residency and the intent to remain in the district, county, or municipality.

  • Establishing Domicile: The bill outlines various factors that can be used to establish a candidate's principal residence, including:

    • Physical characteristics of the residence
    • Duration of time spent at the residence
    • Intent to return to the residence
    • Vehicle registration and driver's license addresses
    • Voter registration address
    • Receipt of state or federal benefits at the residence
    • Payment of property or income taxes

  • Exceptions: The provisions do not apply to candidates for Circuit Court Judge, Family Court Judge, or Prosecuting Attorney.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2078 would primarily affect individuals seeking election to state, county, or local offices in West Virginia. Candidates would need to ensure they meet the residency requirements, potentially influencing their campaign strategies and voter engagement efforts. The bill aims to promote accountability and representation by ensuring that elected officials have a tangible connection to the communities they serve.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 12, 2025: Bill filed for introduction and referred to the House Judiciary Committee.
  • February 13, 2025: The bill was sent to the House Legal Services Committee for further consideration.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 2078, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on candidates and the electoral process in West Virginia.

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

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