This bill seeks to amend West Virginia Code ยง61-6-21 to expand the protections against civil rights violations by explicitly including disability, gender identity, and sexual orientation alongside existing categories such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, and political affiliation. It establishes criminal penalties for individuals who willfully injure, intimidate, or interfere with others based on these characteristics, classifying such actions as felonies punishable by fines and imprisonment. The bill also introduces provisions that state evidence of constitutionally protected speech or associations is generally inadmissible in prosecutions under this section, with specific exceptions related to the crime charged.
Additionally, the bill provides for alternative sentencing options for those convicted under this section, including deferred adjudication and community corrections programming. It outlines factors for judges to consider when determining the appropriateness of alternative sentencing, such as the availability of community corrections programs and their potential for victim remediation or community reintegration. The amendments are collectively referred to as "Angels Law," emphasizing the bill's intent to enhance civil rights protections and provide rehabilitative options for offenders.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 61-6-21