The bill amends the guidelines for reinstating sheriff's deputies in West Virginia after resignation, specifically addressing the conditions under which a former deputy may seek reinstatement. It clarifies that reinstatement is at the discretion of the sheriff and allows former deputies to apply for reinstatement within five years of their resignation, an increase from the previous two-year limit. Additionally, the bill stipulates that applicants must have served as deputy sheriffs for more than six months prior to their resignation and must meet certain conditions, including the absence of pending misconduct charges and successful completion of medical and psychological examinations.

The bill also includes a deletion of the previous age requirement, which stated that applicants must be at least eighteen years old at the time of application, thereby removing any age-based restrictions for original appointments. This change aims to broaden the pool of eligible candidates for deputy sheriff positions. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline the reinstatement process while ensuring that the sheriff retains discretion over appointments.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 30-29-15
Committee Substitute: 7-14-8
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 7-14-8