Putnam County proposes bill reallocating excise tax funds for election security
March 18, 2025 | 2025 Legislature WV, West Virginia
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The West Virginia Senate Government Organization Committee convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss a significant bill that will alter the allocation of funds from the state excise tax on real property transfers. This legislation aims to ensure that all collected funds remain within the counties where they are generated, enhancing local financial autonomy.
Under the current system, 90% of the excise tax revenue goes to the county general fund, while the remaining 10% is split between election administration and recording room purposes. The proposed bill would adjust this allocation, allowing 80% to go to the county general fund, with 10% each designated for election administration and recording room expenses. This change is expected to result in a reduction of approximately $117,000 in general funds for county commissions, as they will receive a smaller percentage of the total tax revenue.
Brian Wood, the Putnam County Clerk, expressed support for the bill, highlighting its potential to provide counties with a more reliable funding stream for essential services, particularly in election administration. He noted that the bill does not impose new taxes but rather reallocates existing funds to better meet local needs. Wood emphasized the importance of having these funds available for necessary purchases, such as election equipment, which can be costly and unpredictable.
The committee members engaged in discussions about the implications of the bill, with several expressing optimism about its reception among county commissioners. While the County Commissioners Association had not formally endorsed the bill, anecdotal evidence suggested a favorable outlook among local officials.
As the committee moves forward, the focus will be on ensuring that counties can effectively utilize these funds to enhance election security and administration. The bill's passage could mark a pivotal shift in how local governments manage their resources, ultimately benefiting residents by improving the efficiency and security of local elections.
Under the current system, 90% of the excise tax revenue goes to the county general fund, while the remaining 10% is split between election administration and recording room purposes. The proposed bill would adjust this allocation, allowing 80% to go to the county general fund, with 10% each designated for election administration and recording room expenses. This change is expected to result in a reduction of approximately $117,000 in general funds for county commissions, as they will receive a smaller percentage of the total tax revenue.
Brian Wood, the Putnam County Clerk, expressed support for the bill, highlighting its potential to provide counties with a more reliable funding stream for essential services, particularly in election administration. He noted that the bill does not impose new taxes but rather reallocates existing funds to better meet local needs. Wood emphasized the importance of having these funds available for necessary purchases, such as election equipment, which can be costly and unpredictable.
The committee members engaged in discussions about the implications of the bill, with several expressing optimism about its reception among county commissioners. While the County Commissioners Association had not formally endorsed the bill, anecdotal evidence suggested a favorable outlook among local officials.
As the committee moves forward, the focus will be on ensuring that counties can effectively utilize these funds to enhance election security and administration. The bill's passage could mark a pivotal shift in how local governments manage their resources, ultimately benefiting residents by improving the efficiency and security of local elections.
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