This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to allow parties involved in actions before the Human Rights Commission to remove their cases to the appropriate circuit court. Specifically, it introduces a new section that permits a complainant, respondent, or an aggrieved person to elect to have their claims decided in a civil action instead of undergoing a hearing before the commission. This election must be made within 20 days of receiving service under the article, and the Attorney General is required to commence a civil action within 30 days of such an election.
Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for the civil action, including the ability for aggrieved persons to intervene in the case and the types of relief that may be granted by the court. The proposed changes aim to streamline the process for addressing unlawful discriminatory practices by providing an alternative route for resolution through the circuit court, thereby enhancing the rights of individuals seeking redress.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 16B-17-10