Bill > HJR40

This resolution proposes an amendment to the West Virginia Constitution that would grant registered voters the powers of initiative and referendum, allowing them to propose and vote on new laws and amendments to the Constitution through a petition process, and to reject laws passed by the Legislature. The initiative power allows voters to propose statutes and constitutional amendments, which, if a proper petition is filed, can be enacted by a simple majority vote at a scheduled election, and this power is not subject to the Governor's veto. The referendum power allows voters to propose the rejection of newly enacted laws or parts of laws, which, if a proper petition is filed, will be put to a vote at a scheduled election for approval or rejection by a simple majority. Both powers have specific requirements for the number of signatures needed on petitions, varying for district-specific and statewide measures, and include limitations such as not being able to propose legislation that the Legislature itself cannot enact, or to amend the proposed new article. The resolution also outlines procedures for the Legislature to establish regarding petition processes, signature verification, election conduct, and disclosure of campaign contributions, while emphasizing that these powers should be liberally construed to ensure the people's ability to propose and vote on laws is not hindered by overly complex procedures.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Resolution_History.cfm?year=2026&sessiontype=RS&input4=40&billtype=JR&houseorig=H&btype=res