The bill amends the guidelines for reinstating sheriff's deputies in West Virginia after their resignation. It clarifies that the decision to reinstate a former deputy sheriff lies at the discretion of the sheriff and establishes that a former deputy may seek reinstatement within five years of their resignation, as opposed to the previous two-year limit. Additionally, the bill removes the age restriction that previously required applicants to be at least eighteen years old at the time of application, allowing for more flexibility in the hiring process.

Under the new provisions, applicants who have served as deputy sheriffs for more than six months prior to their resignation can be considered for reinstatement if they meet certain criteria, including the absence of pending misconduct charges, residency in the same county, and successful completion of medical and psychological evaluations. The civil service commission retains the authority to reinstate applicants without requiring a competitive examination, further streamlining the process for former deputies seeking to return to their positions.

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