This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to require natural resources police officers to obtain either the consent of the landowner or a warrant before entering private property while performing their official duties. The bill introduces new language that specifies that officers may enter private lands or waters only if they have a warrant or explicit or implied permission from the landowner or lessee. Additionally, it provides an exception allowing officers to enter private land without permission if there is probable cause of an emergency situation, accident, or imminent threat to public safety that necessitates immediate intervention.

The bill also retains existing provisions that grant natural resources police officers various powers, including the authority to arrest individuals committing offenses in their presence, carry weapons, conduct searches, and execute warrants. However, the new requirement for consent or a warrant before entering private property aims to enhance the protection of landowners' rights while still allowing officers to respond to urgent situations effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 20-7-4