The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to require individuals convicted of certain crimes, particularly sexual offenses, to register with both the Central Abuse Registry and the Sex Offender Registration Act. It specifically mandates registration for those convicted under the provisions of 61-8B-1 et seq., which includes sexual extortion and aggravated sexual extortion, and clarifies that individuals previously convicted of the now-repealed 61-8B-6, related to sexual assault of a spouse, are still required to register. Additionally, it includes provisions for those convicted of nonconsensual disclosure of private intimate images under 61-8-28a and other specified offenses under 61-8-32.

The bill also establishes an annual registration fee of $125, payable to the West Virginia State Police, which is intended to support mental health services for law enforcement and other essential operations. It outlines the registration procedures, including required information from registrants and consequences for failing to pay the fee. Importantly, individuals required to register under both the Central Abuse Registry and the Sex Offender Registration Act will only need to pay one fee. The legislation further stipulates that a notice will act as a judgment, must be recorded by the county clerk, and that the State Police will release the judgment lien within 30 days of full payment, providing written verification to the registrant. The bill originated in the House of Delegates and will take effect 90 days after passage, pending the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-12-2, 61-8B-1, 61-8B-6
Committee Substitute: 15-12-2, 61-8B-1, 61-8B-6, 61-8-28a, 61-8-32
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 15-12-2, 61-8B-1, 61-8B-6, 61-8-28a, 61-8-32
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 15-12-2, 61-8B-1, 61-8B-6, 61-8-28a, 61-8-32