Relating to allowing localities contiguous to the border of West Virginia to join the state via local elections

HB 4689 allows localities (like towns, cities, or counties) contiguous to West Virginia's border to join the state through a specific process. It requires a binding local referendum, a simple majority vote by the West Virginia Legislature, and final voter approval at the next general election. If approved, the bill mandates transition steps: the Secretary of State must notify Congress and tax authorities within seven days, provide tax payment instructions with a grace period, and offer free business licensing and professional license grandfathering until December 31 of the admission year. This bill directly affects border communities seeking state admission and outlines concrete procedures for their integration into West Virginia's governance and tax systems.