This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the Central Abuse Registry and the Sex Offender Registration Act by establishing a Central Abuse Registry managed by the West Virginia State Police. It mandates that individuals convicted of child abuse, neglect of incapacitated adults, and related offenses pay an annual fee of $125, which must be submitted between January 1 and June 30 each year. The State Police will issue receipts for these payments and maintain records. Notably, individuals required to register under both the Central Abuse Registry and the Sex Offender Registration Act will only need to pay one annual fee, streamlining the financial obligations for registrants.

Additionally, the bill updates the registration process under the Sex Offender Registration Act, shifting the responsibility for fee collection from the circuit clerk to the State Police. It specifies that the collected fees will be deposited into the State Treasury and used primarily to enhance mental health services for law enforcement personnel. The bill also introduces a provision allowing the State Police to send written notices to registrants who fail to pay their fees, which can lead to a judgment lien if payment is not made within 30 days. This comprehensive approach aims to improve the efficiency of the registration process while ensuring that funds are directed towards supporting the mental health of law enforcement employees.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-2C-2, 15-12-2