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HB 2141

To modify certain election laws, early voting laws, and absentee voting laws

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Holstein

House Bill 2141 modernizes West Virginia's election laws, enhancing voter registration access and integrity while imposing penalties for unlawful practices.

To House Judiciary
#elections
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2141

Summary of House Bill 2141

Bill Number: HB 2141
Title: To modify certain election laws, early voting laws, and absentee voting laws
Status: To House Judiciary
Introduced: February 12, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Elections

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2141 aims to amend and update various sections of the West Virginia Code related to election laws, specifically focusing on early voting, absentee voting, and voter registration processes. The bill seeks to enhance the accessibility and integrity of the voting process while introducing criminal penalties for unlawful practices related to voter registration and record management.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant changes, including:

  1. Voter Registration Timeline:

    • Establishes that voter registration must close 21 days before an election, with specific deadlines for online and mail registrations.
    • Allows for corrections to incomplete applications within four business days after the close of registration.

  2. Mail Registration:

    • Permits qualified individuals to register, change, or transfer their voter registration by mail using a prescribed form.
    • The Secretary of State is tasked with distributing mail registration forms through governmental and private entities.

  3. Identification Requirements:

    • Individuals registering by mail who have not previously voted in West Virginia must present valid identification when voting, either in person or by mail.
    • Provisional ballots may be cast by those who do not meet identification requirements.

  4. Criminal Penalties:

    • Introduces penalties for unlawful registration practices, including the alteration or destruction of voter registration records.

  5. Removal of Obsolete Language:

    • The bill aims to streamline the election code by removing outdated provisions.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

  • Voters: The bill is designed to simplify the registration process and enhance voter access, particularly for those registering by mail.
  • Election Officials: County clerks and the Secretary of State will have new responsibilities regarding the distribution of registration forms and the verification of applications.
  • Organizations: Groups conducting voter registration drives will need to adhere to new guidelines for obtaining and distributing registration forms.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the House Judiciary Committee on February 12, 2025.
  • If passed, the changes would be implemented in time for upcoming elections, although specific timelines for implementation are not detailed in the current version.

Conclusion

House Bill 2141 represents a comprehensive effort to modernize West Virginia's election laws, focusing on improving voter registration processes and ensuring the integrity of the electoral system. By addressing both accessibility and accountability, the bill aims to foster greater public confidence in the electoral process.

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

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