The proposed bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new section, 61-6-18a, which prohibits public camping in designated areas. It defines key terms such as "camp" and "shelter," and establishes that a person commits an offense if they intentionally camp in public places without consent from the relevant authorities. The bill outlines specific actions that can demonstrate a person's intent to camp, including cooking, making a fire, and sleeping. Violations of this section are classified as misdemeanors, with penalties including fines ranging from $100 to $1,000 and community service requirements.

Additionally, the bill mandates that individuals who violate the camping prohibition receive a warning citation for their first offense and be offered a one-way bus ticket to select cities at no cost. It also allows courts to impose community service in lieu of fines. The legislation emphasizes that it does not preempt existing local ordinances regarding camping and requires officers to provide information about alternative camping locations and support services before issuing citations, unless there is an imminent threat to public health or safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-6-18a