Bill > HB5167

This bill, titled the "Taxpayer Accountability for Public Service Act," establishes new eligibility requirements for individuals seeking to hold public office, meaning any elected position at the local or state level. To be considered a candidate, a person must prove they have paid all lawfully assessed personal property taxes, which are taxes on items owned by an individual. This proof will be in the form of a "certification of tax compliance," a document from the tax authority confirming taxes are paid or a payment plan is in place. The bill's findings emphasize that paying taxes is a fundamental civic duty and that public officials should demonstrate their commitment to such responsibilities, as failing to pay taxes indicates a disregard for legal obligations. However, exceptions exist: individuals can still run if they are adhering to an approved tax payment plan or if they have a pending, good-faith challenge to a tax assessment. Election officials are responsible for verifying this tax compliance before a candidate can be placed on the ballot, and candidates found to have unpaid taxes, without an exception, will be removed. Knowingly providing false tax information will result in disqualification from running for office for five years.

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http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5167&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill