The proposed bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new section, designated as 15-5-31, known as the Religious Freedom Protection Act. This legislation seeks to ensure that religious services and houses of worship remain open during any declared state of emergency by the Governor. It explicitly prohibits any orders or control measures that infringe on the right to assemble for worship, impact travel to places of worship, or authorize adverse actions against religious institutions or their members for practicing their faith.

Additionally, the bill establishes a private cause of action for religious institutions that experience harm due to violations of this section, allowing them to seek injunctive relief, damages, and other legal remedies. It also sets a two-year statute of limitations for filing such claims and specifies that those who prevail in their claims may be entitled to monetary damages, including compensation for psychological, emotional, and physical harm, as well as reasonable attorney's fees. The act is designed to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-5-31