This bill amends the powers and duties of natural resources police officers in West Virginia, specifically addressing their authority to enter private property. It mandates that officers must obtain either the explicit or implied consent of the landowner or a warrant before entering private lands or waters while performing their official duties. However, the bill includes an exception that allows officers to enter private property without permission if there is probable cause to believe that an emergency situation, accident, or imminent threat to public safety exists that requires immediate intervention.

The bill also retains existing provisions that grant natural resources police officers various enforcement powers, such as the ability to arrest individuals committing offenses in their presence, carry weapons, conduct searches, and execute warrants. The changes aim to enhance the protection of private property rights while ensuring that officers can still respond effectively to emergencies and enforce natural resource laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 20-7-4