This bill amends West Virginia Code §55-7-22 to enhance employment protections for individuals who use reasonable and proportionate force, including deadly force, in self-defense or defense of others at their place of employment. The new legal language specifies that employees who are physically attacked or reasonably apprehend an attack by someone who is not a co-worker may defend themselves without facing adverse employment actions, such as termination, solely for their defensive actions. Additionally, it clarifies that these individuals may use deadly force without a duty to retreat if they believe they or another person are in imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm.

The bill also maintains existing provisions that justify the use of reasonable and proportionate force against intruders or attackers in various circumstances, including within a home or other legal places. It outlines conditions under which the justified use of force serves as a complete defense in civil actions and specifies that this defense is not available to individuals engaged in unlawful activities or those who provoke the use of force against themselves. Overall, the bill aims to provide legal protections for employees who act in self-defense while at work, ensuring they are not penalized for their actions in life-threatening situations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 55-7-22