Bill > HB5507

This bill establishes a framework for West Virginia's participation in an Article V convention, a process outlined in the U.S. Constitution (Article V) that allows states to propose amendments to the Constitution. It defines key terms such as "Article V Convention" as the gathering of states to propose amendments, and "Delegate" as a person selected by the West Virginia Legislature to represent the state. The bill specifies qualifications for delegates, requiring them to be U.S. citizens, state residents for at least five years, at least 25 years old, registered voters, and free from certain federal employment, lobbying, or felony convictions within specified timeframes. Seven delegates will be appointed by a joint resolution of the Legislature, which will also issue a "Commissioning Resolution" detailing their specific instructions and limitations, including not altering the traditional "one state, one vote" rule or proposing amendments that undermine individual liberties or stray from the convention's stated purpose (preventing "runaway amendments"). Delegates must take a written oath to uphold their commission and instructions, and their credentials will be their oath and commissioning resolution. The bill creates an "Advisory Committee" composed of legislative members to monitor delegates, advise them, and discipline any who violate their oath or instructions, with potential penalties including recall, civil fines, or criminal charges, including two years of incarceration and a $250,000 fine for enabling a "runaway amendment." Vacancies will be filled by an interim delegate selected by the Advisory Committee until the Legislature can appoint a permanent replacement. Delegates will receive compensation and expenses similar to state legislators and are prohibited from accepting gifts or benefits exceeding $200. The bill also outlines rules for delegation conduct, media communication, and decision-making processes within the delegation itself.

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http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5507&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill