Prohibiting chairmen of state political parties during or up to one year after the termination of their employment as chairmen of those political parties from registering as lobbyists

HB 3497 prohibits chairpersons of West Virginia state political parties from registering as lobbyists during their tenure or for one year after ending that role. This bill directly affects individuals serving as chairpersons of political parties (as defined by §3-1-8 of West Virginia law). It amends lobbying registration rules by adding political party chairpersons to the list of public officials barred from lobbyist registration for one year post-employment, similar to restrictions already applying to legislators and other state officials. The provision takes effect April 15, 2025, and applies to all state political party chairpersons, regardless of their prior lobbying experience.