This bill amends West Virginia Code § 61-7-7 to require individuals convicted of specific crimes, particularly those outlined in subsections (a)(1) and (8), to sign a form at the time of their conviction. This form will acknowledge their prohibition from possessing firearms and mandate that they transfer any firearms they own to individuals who are not prohibited from possessing firearms. The bill aims to enhance compliance with firearm possession laws for those who have been convicted of serious offenses, including felonies and certain misdemeanors related to domestic violence.

Additionally, the bill makes several changes to the existing legal framework regarding firearm possession. It deletes the previous subsection (f) and replaces it with a new subsection (g), which clarifies the process for individuals prohibited from possessing firearms to petition the court for the restoration of their rights. The bill also introduces a new subsection (h) that allows individuals whose convictions have been expunged or who have received an unconditional pardon to regain their right to possess firearms. Overall, the bill seeks to strengthen regulations surrounding firearm possession for individuals with certain criminal convictions while providing a pathway for regaining those rights under specific circumstances.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-7-7