This bill amends West Virginia Code §61-8C-3, which addresses the distribution and exhibition of materials depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The bill introduces new provisions that clarify the groups of individuals to whom the criminal prohibitions do not apply when performing their official or employment duties. Specifically, it states that law enforcement personnel, prosecuting attorneys, defense attorneys, judges, magistrates, jurors, and support personnel for these officials are exempt from the prohibitions while acting in their official capacities.

Additionally, the bill requests the Supreme Court of Appeals to establish rules and protocols for the access, use, and handling of materials depicting minors in sexually explicit conduct, ensuring that the privacy rights of victims and the due process rights of defendants are respected. This legislative change aims to provide clarity regarding the legal responsibilities of certain officials while maintaining the integrity of the law against child pornography.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-8C-3