This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new section, 1-8-2, which establishes restrictions on government entities regarding the disclosure of personal information for the enforcement of federal immigration laws. The bill defines "government entity" and "personal information," outlining the requirements that must be met before any personal information can be provided. Specifically, a government entity must obtain the requestor's name, contact information, and a statement under penalty of perjury regarding the purpose of the request. If the requestor indicates that the information will be used for enforcing federal immigration law, the government entity is prohibited from disclosing any personal information unless a warrant from a federal or state court is presented.

Additionally, the bill mandates that by December 31 of each year, government entities must report to the attorney general and the legislature on the number of requests received for personal information related to federal immigration law enforcement, as well as the number of requests granted or denied. If a government entity discovers that personal information was misused for immigration enforcement, it is required to cease providing information to that individual or entity unless compelled by a warrant. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance privacy protections and limit the role of state agencies in federal immigration enforcement.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 1-8-2