The bill amends and reenacts section 51-7-1 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, to enhance the reporting of circuit court proceedings. It empowers circuit courts, judges in vacation, and judges of intermediate, criminal, or common pleas courts to appoint court reporters or utilize electronic means approved by the Supreme Court of Appeals for documenting court proceedings, including civil and criminal cases, as well as grand jury testimonies. The appointed reporters will be designated as "official reporters" and must be qualified under oath.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the appointed reporters, including their attendance at grand jury sessions, where they must retire when directed by the foreman, a majority of the grand jury, or the court during consultations or votes. This legislative change aims to modernize the reporting process in West Virginia's courts, ensuring accurate documentation of legal proceedings while providing flexibility in the methods used for reporting.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 51-7-1
Engrossed Version: 51-7-1
Enrolled Version: 51-7-1