The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to establish provisions regarding hospital police departments, including the appointment and qualifications of hospital police officers, their authority, and limitations on liability. It allows hospitals to create police departments and appoint qualified individuals as officers, who must meet specific certification requirements. The bill outlines the duties of hospital police officers, including maintaining law and order on hospital premises and assisting local law enforcement when requested. Additionally, it specifies that the salary and equipment for these officers will be provided by the hospital.

Significantly, the bill introduces new legal language that grants hospitals with police departments immunity from liability in cases of civil disobedience, riot, insurrection, or rebellion. It also clarifies that the governing board of a hospital is not obligated to establish a police department. Other provisions include training requirements for crisis de-escalation techniques and the conditions under which hospital police officers may be held liable for their actions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16B-3-19
Committee Substitute: 16B-3-19
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 16B-3-19