The proposed bill aims to amend and reenact West Virginia Code 61-6-24, introducing the "Anti-Terrorism Act" to enhance the legal framework surrounding terrorism. It clarifies definitions of terrorism, terrorist acts, and terrorist groups, while establishing mandatory sentencing for various offenses related to terrorism. The bill outlines specific felony offenses, including threatening to commit a terrorist act, conveying false information about such acts, and using hoax substances with the intent to commit terrorism. It also mandates restitution for victims of terrorism and increases penalties for those convicted of these offenses, with fines reaching up to $2.5 million and prison sentences of up to 10 years.

Additionally, the bill empowers the Attorney General to identify terrorist entities, including both international and domestic groups, and stipulates that any member or associate of these groups will be deemed engaged in terrorism. The legislation specifies various acts that constitute terrorism, such as violent mass actions, attacks on critical infrastructure, and the use of weapons of mass destruction. It also includes provisions for restitution to victims and reimbursement to the state for response costs. Importantly, the bill asserts that sentences for terrorism are mandatory and cannot be suspended or subject to alternative sentencing, ensuring a stringent approach to combating terrorism in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-6-24