The proposed bill seeks to establish a Law-Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights in West Virginia, introducing a new article to the state's code that outlines various rights and protections for law-enforcement officers. Key provisions include definitions of important terms, general rights, and procedures for investigations and interrogations, emphasizing fair treatment and the requirement for sworn complaints alleging brutality. The bill also ensures that officers under investigation are informed of their rights and the nature of the investigation, while preventing retaliation against them for exercising these rights. Additional measures include allowing secondary employment and protecting personal financial information from disclosure unless necessary for conflict of interest investigations.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws related to administrative actions against law-enforcement officers, establishing a process for applying for a show cause order if rights are denied and imposing a one-year limitation on administrative charges, except for those related to criminal activity or excessive force. It details the rights of officers to a hearing before punitive actions, including the composition of the hearing board and procedures for conducting hearings. The bill also allows for the expungement of records of formal complaints under certain conditions and permits summary punishment for minor violations. Additionally, it clarifies the handling of emergency suspensions and criminalizes knowingly making false statements during investigations, thereby enhancing procedural safeguards while maintaining accountability within law enforcement agencies.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 29B-2-1, 29B-2-2, 29B-2-3, 29B-2-4, 29B-2-5, 29B-2-6, 29B-2-7, 29B-2-8, 29B-2-9, 29B-2-10, 29B-2-11, 29B-2-12, 29B-2-13