The bill amends West Virginia Code §15-10-5 to expand the list of full-time federal law enforcement officers authorized to carry firearms while performing their duties. The new additions include United States Fish and Wildlife special agents, Diplomatic Security Service special agents, Coast Guard special agents, Customs and Border Protection law enforcement agents, Department of Defense special agents, Federal Protective Service officers, Federal Bureau of Prisons officers, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents. This amendment allows these officers to have the same authority to enforce state laws as state or local law enforcement officers under specific circumstances, such as when requested for assistance or when witnessing a felony.

Additionally, the bill grants law enforcement officers of the National Park Service and the United States Forest Service expanded powers, including the authority to arrest, conduct searches, and enforce state laws on lands they manage. These officers are also permitted to conduct independent investigations related to activities occurring on federal lands. However, they are restricted from initiating investigations unrelated to their jurisdiction. The bill ensures that these federal officers have the same legal immunities as state or local law enforcement officers while acting under this authority.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-10-5
Committee Substitute: 15-10-5
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 15-10-5