In 1999, the West Virginia Legislative website received around one million visitors per month. Today, that number is so high that it is almost impractical to count. Each session, the website is used by thousands of citizens across the state as a valuable source of information that can be easily accessed. The website was started in 1997 and is updated each year with new features to make it more accessible and interactive for public access. Along with a new design, the 2004 website now offers a more personalized way to track and monitor bills. The Personalized Bill Tracking system was created to help citizens easily monitor bills that are of concern or interest to them. To access this system, a username and password is required along with the bill numbers. Once a bill number is entered, you can sign-in at any time and view a personalized page of selected bills that includes the most current considerations, actions, and information regarding those bills. If a person does not know the number of a bill, the website also features a topical search section under the Bill Status portion of the site. Bill Status offers a variety of features that allows an individual to search for bills by a selected sponsor, look at bills that have been introduced or passed and follow the history of a bill. Unlike last year, Bill Status now contains full text versions of every bill for a more detailed and in-depth look. In addition, the site also allows a person to type in a zip code under District Information to retrieve state representatives’ names, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, and capitol office numbers. Under this section, a user can also view a interactive touch map of any district area in the state. Along with these new additions, the legislative internship portion of the website was awarded the 2003 Henry Award of Excellence by the National Conference of State Legisla
tures (NCSL). The NCSL works to improve the quality and effectiveness of state legislatures and ensure that states are a strong voice in federal decision making while fostering interstate communication and cooperation. The website was recognized for its promotion of the state legislative internship programs along with emphasizing the valuable experience an intern learns as they work one-on-one with state leaders. All five internship programs are described in depth on the site along with pictures and quotes from former interns on their experiences. Any interested student also can download a copy of an information packet and fill out an online application form for the programs. Not only can the website be used to disseminate information to the general public, but also it can help individuals receive information and accumulate data. The website works as a internal communications network by giving individuals or state groups the capability to answer questions through surveys. These surveys encompass a variety of issues such as education and state law, which are then sent to various groups and individual representatives throughout the country. Through these surveys, lawmakers are able to retrieve results faster when deciding important issues in a short time span. The interim committees issue specific surveys each month regarding scheduling needs and concerns.
Interactive website brings Legislative process home
