The bill amends sections 15-2C-2 and 15-12-2 of the Code of West Virginia to establish a $125 annual fee for individuals required to be placed on the Central Abuse Registry and those under the Sex Offender Registration Act. The fees collected will be credited to the State Police's account, primarily to enhance mental health services for current and former employees. The bill outlines payment procedures, requiring registrants to provide proof of payment to both the State Police and the circuit clerk, who will maintain records of these payments. Additionally, failure to pay the fee will result in a judgment effect, allowing the State Police to issue a notice of nonpayment that can be recorded as a lien against the registrant's property, which will be released upon full payment.

The legislation introduces new legal language to clarify existing processes and improve operational efficiency while removing outdated or redundant legal language. This streamlining aims to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding the registration requirements. The bill is set to take effect 90 days after passage and reflects a collaborative effort between the House and Senate leadership to refine the legal language for better service to constituents.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-2C-2, 15-12-2
Committee Substitute: 15-2C-2, 15-12-2
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 15-2C-2, 15-12-2
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 15-2C-2, 15-12-2