HB4710 is a bill in the West Virginia Legislature (2026 Regular Session): Changing the limit on switching parties before filing to run for office from 60 days to 180 days prior to an election.

What is the status of HB4710?

Passed both chambers as of March 13, 2026. Latest action: Senate requests House to concur (March 13, 2026).

Who sponsored HB4710?

Holstein, Josh (R, 032), with 3 co-sponsors.

Where is the official record for HB4710?

On the West Virginia Legislature website: https://www.wvlegislature.gov/bill_status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4710&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill

West Virginia legislation · 2026 Regular Session

West Virginia HB4710: Changing the limit on switching parties before filing to run for office from 60 days to 180 days prior to an election.

Q: What does HB4710 do?

In its own words: To amend and reenact §3-5-7 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, relating to elections and certificate of announcements; and changing the time limit on switching parties before filing to run office prior to an election. ARTICLE 5. PRIMARY ELECTIONS AND NOMINATING PROCEDURES. §3-5-7. Filing certificates of announcements of candidacies; requirements; withdrawal of candidates when section applicable. (a) Any person who is eligible and seeks to hold an office or political party position to be filled by election in any primary or general election held under the provisions of this.

Status: Passed both chambers, March 13, 2026

What the bill says

To amend and reenact §3-5-7 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, relating to elections and certificate of announcements; and changing the time limit on switching parties before filing to run office prior to an election. ARTICLE 5. PRIMARY ELECTIONS AND NOMINATING PROCEDURES. §3-5-7. Filing certificates of announcements of candidacies; requirements; withdrawal of candidates when section applicable. (a) Any person who is eligible and seeks to hold an office or political party position to be filled by election in any primary or general election held under the provisions of this.

From the engrossed text, February 12, 2026:

A BILL to amend and reenact §3-5-7 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, relating to elections and certificate of announcements; and changing the time limit on switching parties before filing to run office prior to an election. ARTICLE 5. PRIMARY ELECTIONS AND NOMINATING PROCEDURES. §3-5-7. Filing certificates of announcements of candidacies; requirements; withdrawal of candidates when section applicable. (a) Any person who is eligible and seeks to hold an office or political party position to be filled by election in any primary or general election held under the provisions of this chapter shall file a certificate of announcement declaring his or her candidacy for the nomination or election to the office. (b) The certificate of announcement shall be filed as follows: (1) Candidates for the House of Delegates, the State Senate, circuit judge, family court judge, and any other office or political position to be filled by the voters of more than one county shall file a certificate of announcement with the Secretary of State. (2) Candidates for an office or political position to be filled by the voters of a single county or a subdivision of a county, except for candidates for the House of Delegates, State Senate, circuit judge or family court judge, shall file a certificate of announcement with the clerk of the county …

Read the full official text

West Virginia HB4710: Changing the limit on switching parties before filing to run for office from 60 days to 180 days prior to an election.

What the bill says

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