SJR 14 West Virginia Senate · 2026 Regular Session

Incorporation of Churches or Religious Denominations Amendment

This Senate Joint Resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to allow churches and religious denominations in West Virginia to incorporate, changing the current prohibition in Article VI, Section 47 of the state constitution. If approved, it would permit religious groups to form legal entities (incorporate) while maintaining existing provisions for securing church property and its use. The amendment specifically authorizes incorporation for religious organizations that choose to do so, without altering how church property is managed or transferred. It requires voter approval in the 2026 general election to take effect.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 14, 2026 Last action Jan 14, 2026
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Total actions
4
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0
Committee
2
Jan 14, 2026
Committee
To Judiciary
upper
Jan 14, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in Senate
upper
Jan 14, 2026
Committee
To Judiciary then Finance
upper
1 primary · 5 co-sponsors

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