The bill amends West Virginia Code §61-5-17a to establish a felony offense for knowingly, willfully, and forcibly obstructing or hindering a home incarceration supervisor or social services worker while they are lawfully performing their duties. If such obstruction results in the death of the supervisor or worker, the offender will face a felony charge with a penalty of imprisonment in a state correctional facility for a term of 20 years to life. The bill specifies that individuals convicted under this provision are not eligible for parole until they have served a minimum of 20 years of their sentence.

Additionally, the bill expands the definition of individuals protected under this law to include home incarceration supervisors and social services workers, alongside existing categories such as law enforcement officers and correctional officers. The definitions of "forcibly," "home incarceration supervisor," and "social services worker" are also provided to clarify the terms used in the legislation. This amendment aims to enhance the protection of public service workers by imposing stricter penalties for those who obstruct their lawful duties, particularly in cases that lead to fatal outcomes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-5-17a
Committee Substitute: 61-5-17a