Bill > HB2608

This bill modifies West Virginia election law to explicitly require independent candidates to file their candidacy certificates during the same January timeframe already established for partisan candidates. Specifically, the bill adds language stipulating that the existing filing period (between the second Monday and last Saturday in January before the primary election) applies to all candidates, whether they are affiliated with a political party or running as an independent. The filing must be received by the appropriate election official (Secretary of State, county clerk, or municipal recorder) before midnight on the last day of the filing period, with the option to have the document postmarked by the United States Postal Service if mailed. The bill maintains the existing detailed requirements for candidate filings, which include providing personal information, sworn statements about voter registration, and other specifics about the office sought. The changes to this section of election law will become effective on January 1, 2025, ensuring that independent candidates have the same structured timeline for declaring their candidacy as candidates from established political parties.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2608&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill