West Virginia 2024 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB4129

Introduced
1/10/24  

Caption

Authorizing the State Election Commission to promulgate a legislative rule relating to application and approval process for Secretary of State expenditures from the County Assistance Voting Equipment Fund

Impact

Passage of HB4129 is expected to have significant implications for the process of administering elections in West Virginia. By enabling the State Election Commission to establish specific guidelines for expenditures from the County Assistance Voting Equipment Fund, the bill aims to ensure that counties can better manage and utilize funding for voting equipment. This could lead to improved accessibility and security in elections, allowing local jurisdictions to better address their unique voting needs and challenges.

Summary

House Bill 4129 seeks to amend and reenact a specific section of the Code of West Virginia related to the authorization for the State Election Commission to create a legislative rule. This rule pertains to the application and approval process for expenditures by the Secretary of State from the County Assistance Voting Equipment Fund. The objective of this bill is to clarify and streamline the process through which counties can acquire necessary voting equipment, potentially enhancing the electoral process within the state.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB4129 appears to be positive, particularly among lawmakers and election administrators who support enhanced funding processes for local elections. Proponents believe that clearer rules and streamlined expenditures will not only assist in effectively managing resources but also improve public confidence in the electoral system. However, as with any legislative change, there could be concerns about administrative burdens or compliance issues arising from the new regulations.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB4129 may arise from varying opinions about the sufficiency of state oversight in local election processes. While most discussions favor the amendment, some critics might express concern that too much centralization could hamper local authority or lead to unequal access to funding among counties, especially those with smaller budgets. This debate underscores the broader tension between state and local governance in matters affecting elections.

Companion Bills

WV SB85

Similar To State Election Commission rule relating to application and approval process for Secretary of State expenditures from County Assistance Voting Equipment Fund

Previously Filed As

WV HB2737

Authorizing the Secretary of State to promulgate a legislative rule relating to administrative procedures for the Nonpublic Funding for Election Administration Fund

WV SB406

Authorizing Secretary of State to promulgate legislative rule relating to administrative procedures for Nonpublic Funding for Election Administration Fund

WV SB404

Authorizing Secretary of State to promulgate legislative rule relating to early voting in-person satellite precincts

WV HB2735

Authorizing the Secretary of State to promulgate a legislative rule relating to early voting in-person satellite precincts

WV SB405

Authorizing Secretary of State to promulgate legislative rule relating to Combined Voter Registration and Driver Licensing Fund

WV HB2736

Authorizing the Secretary of State to promulgate a legislative rule relating to Combined Voter Registration and Driver Licensing Fund

WV HB2840

Relating to expenditures of federal appropriations from Congress to the Secretary of State for purposes that further the administration of federal elections held in the state

WV SB374

Authorizing Athletic Commission to promulgate legislative rule relating to administrative rules of WV State Athletic Commission

WV HB2670

Authorizing the Fire Commission to promulgate a legislative rule relating to volunteer firefighters' training, equipment, and operating standards

WV SB603

Authorizing WVSSAC to promulgate legislative rules

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.