The proposed bill seeks to create a Domestic Violence Registry in West Virginia, requiring individuals convicted of domestic violence offenses to register with the State Police in their county of residence. This initiative aims to improve public safety by making information about domestic violence offenders accessible while safeguarding against potential retribution. The bill details the definitions of domestic violence, the registration process, and the necessary information offenders must provide, such as personal details, employment information, and internet accounts. It also mandates the State Police to maintain a central registry and share information with law enforcement, schools, and community organizations, while ensuring that the registry information is not subject to the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for the State Police to inform authorized law enforcement and governmental agencies for law enforcement purposes and the establishment of civil immunity for public officials acting in good faith. Offenders will be informed of their registration duties prior to release, and they must notify the State Police of any intent to move out of state at least 10 business days in advance. The bill outlines penalties for non-compliance, including fines and imprisonment for those who fail to register or provide false information, and it establishes penalties for aiding domestic violence offenders in evading law enforcement. Additionally, it includes provisions for the registration of out-of-state offenders and mandates regular verification of registrants' information by the State Police to maintain the accuracy of the registry.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-17-1, 15-17-2, 15-17-3, 15-17-4, 15-17-5, 15-17-6, 15-17-7, 15-17-8, 15-17-9, 15-17-10, 15-17-11, 15-17-12