West Virginia 2026 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HCR6

Introduced
1/20/26  

Caption

Affirming the sovereign right of the State of West Virginia to nullify un-Constitutional Acts

Impact

Should HCR6 pass, it will have substantial implications for the legal framework governing the relationship between the state and federal governments. It enables West Virginia to disregard federal laws or actions that are perceived to overstep constitutional boundaries, potentially leading to legal challenges and conflicts. The resolution activates a mechanism for the state's executive branch to identify federal actions for nullification, which could set a precedent affecting how other states engage similarly.

Summary

HCR6 affirms the sovereign right of West Virginia to nullify any actions deemed unconstitutional by the federal government. The resolution asserts that the powers of government are derived from the people and that states have a fundamental responsibility to protect these rights from federal encroachments. This legislation directly ties into the Tenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which reserves powers not delegated to the federal government back to the states and the people. HCR6 emphasizes the belief that unchecked federal authority poses a threat to individual liberties and state sovereignty.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR6 appears divided. Proponents of the bill view it as a protective measure for state sovereignty and individual liberties, advocating for a return to the principles laid out by the Founding Fathers regarding states' rights. In contrast, critics argue that the resolution could lead to increased chaos within the legal system and foster intergovernmental conflicts, undermining the rule of law and the uniform application of federal statutes. This polarization reflects a broader national debate regarding the role of state versus federal authority.

Contention

Key points of contention include concerns over judicial supremacy and the historical context of states' rights. Critics contest the bill's interpretation of constitutional provisions, suggesting it promotes selective adherence to federal laws, which can undermine the legal consistency necessary for a functioning union. Additionally, the push for nullification presents challenges in federal-state relations, drawing mixed reactions about the potential for legislative overreach and its implications for governance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HCR66

Affirming the sovereign right of the State of West Virginia to nullify un-Constitutional acts

WV SB530

Creating the West Virginia Land Sovereignty Act

WV SB689

State Sovereignty Act of 2025

WV HB2974

To nullify any ATF powers by the federal government to regulate intrastate firearm sales in West Virginia

WV HCR53

West Virginia has standing in matters relating to issues that impact people of West Virginia

WV HB2808

To ensure that West Virginia law enforcement entities are not compelled or commandeered by federal authorities to conduct activities that violate our citizens’ Constitutional rights

WV HCR58

Expressing the postition of the House of Delegates of West Virginia that unborn children are legal and constitutional persons entitled to the equal protection of the laws

WV HJR16

Guaranteeing the right of the citizens of West Virginia to hunt and fish

WV HB3091

To revise and update all provisions of state code relating to the West Virginia State Guard

WV HR9

Urging the Governor and our federal representatives to assist West Virginians who have and will lose their federal jobs and to do all it their power to prevent these job losses in our state

Similar Bills

LA HB472

(Constitutional Amendment) Revises Article VII of the Constitution of La. (OR -$139,000,000 GF RV See Note)

NJ ACR123

Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.

NJ SCR75

Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.

NJ SCR43

Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing Legislature to invalidate certain court decisions.

LA HB244

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the election of constitutional convention delegates and vote requirements necessary for the adoption of a new constitution (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

LA HB678

(Constitutional Amendment) Modifies disposition of certain state revenues through repeal of the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund and deposits of certain revenue streams into the Budget Stabilization Fund (RRF INCREASE GF RV See Note)

LA HB473

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)

HI SB1225

Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.