This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 62-8-1a, to the Code of West Virginia, which establishes the offense of possessing illegal drugs or testing positive for drug use while incarcerated. The legislation outlines specific penalties for such offenses, including an increase in the incarcerated individual's sentence: six months for a first offense and one year for any subsequent offenses, with the latter served consecutively. Additionally, if there are multiple violations, the penalties will accumulate and be served consecutively after the completion of the current sentence.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that drug testing for all incarcerated individuals will commence after three months of incarceration. Testing will continue based on the availability of resources or if there is suspicion of drug possession or use. This legislation aims to enhance the management of drug-related offenses within correctional facilities and ensure a drug-free environment for inmates.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 62-8-1a