The proposed bill amends various sections of the West Virginia Code to strengthen enforcement against illegal entry and reentry into the state by aliens. It establishes new definitions, findings, and offenses related to these actions, including penalties for individuals who unlawfully enter the state after entering the United States illegally. The bill introduces civil immunity and indemnification for local and state officials enforcing these laws, while also outlining conditions under which this immunity may not apply, such as actions taken in bad faith. Additionally, it prohibits community supervision and parole for individuals convicted of illegal entry or reentry, and specifies procedures for the court to order deportation of certain individuals.

Key provisions include the classification of illegal entry and reentry as misdemeanors or felonies based on prior convictions, as well as the establishment of affirmative defenses for those with lawful presence or asylum. The bill also addresses the refusal to comply with return orders, classifying it as a felony, and ensures that prosecutions are not abated due to pending federal immigration status determinations. Furthermore, it mandates that orders related to these offenses be filed with the appropriate clerks and reported to the West Virginia State Police, thereby enhancing the enforcement framework surrounding illegal immigration in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-2-24, 62-11C-11, 62-12-2, 62-12-13, 29-12A-19, 29-12A-20, 29-12A-21, 29-12A-22, 61-17-1, 61-17-2, 61-17-3, 61-17-4, 61-17-5, 61-17-6, 61-17-7, 61-17-8, 62-17-1, 62-17-2, 62-17-3