This bill amends West Virginia Code §7-14-13, which pertains to the promotion and hiring practices within the sheriff's office. The key change introduced by this bill is the provision that allows a sheriff to appoint more than one chief deputy, contingent upon the advice and consent of the county commission, as specified in the new language: "The sheriff may have and appoint more than one chief deputy by and with the advice and consent of the county commission, pursuant to the provisions of 7-7-7 of this code."

Additionally, the bill clarifies the eligibility criteria for promotions within the sheriff's office, particularly regarding the chief deputy and jailer positions. It removes the previous requirement that no person, except for the chief deputy or jailer, could be promoted to a higher grade until they had completed at least two years of service in the lower grade. The bill aims to enhance the sheriff's authority in hiring and promoting personnel within their office, ensuring that the provisions apply to all individuals previously subject to the article.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 7-14-13