HB5167

Establishes the Taxpayer Accountability for Public Service Act, requiring candidates to prove tax compliance to run for public office.

The Taxpayer Accountability for Public Service Act mandates that candidates for public office in West Virginia must certify their tax compliance. Candidates must submit documentation verifying payment of all personal property taxes due or proof of an approved payment plan. Exceptions are made for those with pending good faith tax challenges. The election authority verifies tax compliance and removes candidates from the ballot if they have unpaid personal property taxes. Disqualification lasts five years for knowingly filing false tax information. The act takes effect immediately upon passage.