This bill proposes the addition of a new section, designated 62-12-26a, to the Code of West Virginia, which establishes residency restrictions for individuals convicted of making terroristic threats involving educational facilities or children. Specifically, it prohibits these individuals from residing within one thousand feet of the property line of any public or private school, preschool, daycare center, or similar educational facility during their probation, parole, or supervised release. The bill also allows the court to impose this residency restriction as part of the judgment order if the individual is not placed on probation or parole.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the methods for measuring proximity to educational facilities, which may include geographic information systems (GIS) and property records. Violating this residency restriction is classified as a felony, punishable by confinement in a state correctional facility for one to five years, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. Additionally, such a violation may lead to the revocation of probation or parole. The intent of this legislation is to enhance public safety by preventing individuals convicted of terroristic threats from living near child-populated locations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 62-12-26a