This bill amends the Code of West Virginia concerning the Sex Offender Registration Act, focusing on registration requirements and obligations for individuals without a permanent residence. Key changes include a mandate for registrants to update their information within 10 days of any changes, including temporary addresses, and a comprehensive set of information required during registration, such as full name, address, Social Security number, and details about vehicles or internet accounts. The bill also allows individuals convicted in other jurisdictions to be removed from the registry upon qualifying for expungement. Additionally, it extends the registration period from 10 to 15 years for certain offenses and introduces a 25-year registration period for specific sexual offenses against minors, while individuals with multiple convictions or classified as sexually violent predators will be required to register for life.

Moreover, the bill enhances the registration and notification processes for sex offenders by requiring advance notification to the State Police for those intending to move out of state or travel abroad, along with stricter penalties for failing to register or provide accurate information. It introduces a DNA sample requirement and ensures that victim information remains confidential. New restrictions will also be placed on where sex offenders can reside, prohibiting them from living within 2,500 feet of schools or daycare facilities starting January 1, 2026. The State Police will be responsible for more frequent address verifications, particularly for sexually violent predators, ultimately aiming to improve public safety and compliance among sex offenders in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-12-2, 15-12-3, 15-12-4, 15-12-5, 15-12-7, 15-12-8, 15-12-10, 15-12-2b