The proposed bill seeks to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 62-1A-12, which establishes strict regulations on the installation of surveillance cameras on private property by law enforcement. Under this new provision, law enforcement officers are prohibited from installing surveillance cameras on private land without obtaining either the property owner's consent or a valid search warrant. However, there are exceptions to this prohibition, allowing officers to install cameras in areas where they have a lawful right to be and that are visible to the public, or in situations where exigent circumstances exist that prevent them from obtaining consent or a warrant.

Additionally, the bill defines key terms related to the legislation, including "law-enforcement officer," "private land," "property owner," and "surveillance camera." Notably, it clarifies that a law enforcement officer's vehicle dash camera or body camera does not fall under the definition of a surveillance camera. This legislation aims to protect the privacy rights of individuals on private property while still allowing law enforcement to perform their duties under specific circumstances.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 62-1A-12
Committee Substitute: 62-1A-12