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. The registry will include information on individuals convicted of child abuse, neglect of incapacitated adults, and related offenses. Individuals convicted of these offenses will be required to pay an annual fee of $125, which must be paid between January 1 and June 30 each year. The bill clarifies that those required to register under both the Central Abuse Registry and the Sex Offender Registration Act will only need to pay one annual fee. Additionally, the State Police will provide receipts for these payments and maintain records.

The bill also updates the registration process under the Sex Offender Registration Act, including the collection of detailed personal information from registrants and the handling of fees, which will now be paid directly to the State Police instead of the circuit clerk. The funds collected will be used to enhance mental health services for law enforcement personnel. Furthermore, the bill introduces enforcement provisions for fee payment, allowing the State Police to send a written notice to registrants who fail to pay the fee. If the fee remains unpaid for 30 days after the notice, the State Police can record this notice in the county clerk's office, creating a judgment lien that will be released upon full payment.

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