This bill amends West Virginia Code §55-7-22 to enhance employment protections for individuals who use reasonable and proportionate force, including deadly force, in self-defense or defense of others at their workplace. The new legal language specifies that employees who are physically attacked or reasonably apprehend an attack by someone who is not an employee or co-worker at their place of employment are protected from adverse actions by their employer, such as termination, solely for defending themselves or others. Additionally, it clarifies that these individuals may use deadly force without a duty to retreat if they believe they or another person are in imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm.

The bill also retains existing provisions that justify the use of reasonable and proportionate force in various circumstances, including the defense of one's home or residence, and outlines conditions under which the defense is not available, such as when the person is engaged in unlawful activity or provokes the use of force. Overall, the legislation aims to provide legal safeguards for employees who act in self-defense, ensuring they are not penalized for taking necessary actions to protect themselves or others in dangerous situations at work.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 55-7-22