The bill amends the Sex Offender Registration Act in West Virginia to clarify registration requirements and enhance the obligations of individuals without a permanent residence. Key provisions include a mandate for registrants to update their information within 10 days of any changes, including temporary addresses, and the collection of DNA samples from individuals upon their release from confinement. The State Police will maintain a central online registry, with certain information protected from public disclosure. Additionally, the bill repeals the section establishing a sex offender registration advisory board and modifies registration periods, extending them from 10 to 15 years for certain offenses and introducing a 25-year period for specific sexual offenses against minors.

The legislation also introduces new requirements for registrants to notify the State Police prior to moving out of state or traveling abroad, and it mandates address verification for registered sex offenders, particularly sexually violent predators, every 90 days. A significant provision prohibits sex offenders from residing within 2,500 feet of schools or daycare facilities starting January 1, 2027, to enhance community safety. The bill clarifies penalties for failing to register or provide accurate information, with increased penalties for repeat offenders and those aiding in evasion of law enforcement. Overall, the proposed amendments aim to strengthen the monitoring and management of sex offenders in the community.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-12-2, 15-12-3, 15-12-4, 15-12-5, 15-12-7, 15-12-8, 15-12-10, 15-12-2b