This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by establishing an animal abuse registry and updating the existing Central Abuse Registry to include information on animal abuse convictions. Specifically, it inserts provisions to include "animal abuse" in the definitions and requirements of the Central Abuse Registry, which will now contain information on individuals convicted of animal abuse alongside other forms of abuse, neglect, and misappropriation of property. The bill also introduces a new article, 15-17, which outlines the intent and findings related to the animal abuse registry, emphasizing the correlation between violence against animals and violence against humans, and the necessity of public safety measures.

Under the new provisions, individuals convicted of specific animal abuse offenses will be required to register with the West Virginia State Police, and the registry will be maintained with updated information regarding the registrants. The bill mandates that individuals must inform the State Police of any changes to their registration information within ten business days and establishes a ten-year registration period following their release from incarceration or mental health facilities. Additionally, it allows for the removal of names from the registry if a conviction is overturned. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance public safety by creating a regulatory framework for monitoring individuals convicted of animal abuse.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-2C-2, 15-17-1, 15-17-2, 15-17-3, 15-17-4