SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 62

(By Senators Oliverio, Kessler, Caldwell, Hunter, Jenkins, Minard, Ross, Rowe, Snyder, White, Deem, Harrison, McKenzie and Weeks)

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[Originating in the Committee on the Judiciary;

reported March 8, 2003.]

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Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the "Campaign Finance Reform Act".

Whereas, In other jurisdictions, passage of campaign finance reform in 2000 contributed to an increase in contested races and a rise in the number of candidates running for office compared to previous elections;
Whereas, The availability of public funds would allow candidates to concentrate on connecting with voters rather than on soliciting campaign contributions;
Whereas, Campaign finance reform may result in greater financial parity among candidates, thereby encouraging women and persons of color to participate in the electoral process and enhancing electoral competition and greater voter interest;
Whereas, Greater participation in the electoral process by the citizens of West Virginia would be of benefit to all West Virginians; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study the "Campaign Finance Reform Act"; and be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance consult with persons and groups interested in the electoral process, including, but not limited to, the league of women voters and citizens for campaign finance reform; and be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2004, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.