This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the law enforcement authority of commissioned law enforcement officers of the National Park Service. Specifically, it grants these officers the powers of arrest, search, and seizure for offenses committed under state laws within national parks or national recreation areas. The bill defines "national park or national recreation area" as those included in the National Park System, as outlined in federal law.

The bill also reaffirms the existing authority of federal law enforcement officers, allowing them to enforce state laws under certain conditions, such as when requested by state or local law enforcement or when witnessing a felony. The new provision specifically adds the National Park Service officers to the list of federal officers who can exercise these law enforcement privileges, thereby expanding their operational scope within West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-10-5