This bill aims to amend West Virginia's Code to enhance protections against civil rights violations based on disability, gender identity, or sexual orientation. It introduces new legal language that expands the definition of protected characteristics, explicitly including disability, gender identity, and sexual orientation alongside race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, and political affiliation. The bill establishes that individuals who willfully injure, intimidate, or interfere with others based on these characteristics are guilty of a felony, subject to fines and imprisonment. Additionally, it specifies that the intentional selection of a victim based on these characteristics will be considered an aggravating circumstance during sentencing.

Furthermore, the bill outlines that evidence of constitutionally protected speech or associations is generally inadmissible in prosecutions under this section, with exceptions for cases directly related to the crime charged. It also provides for alternative sentencing options, including community corrections programs, for those convicted under this law. The amendments introduced by this bill will be collectively referred to as "Angels Law," reflecting the intent to create a more inclusive and protective legal framework for individuals facing discrimination based on their identity.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-6-21