The bill amends and reenacts section 15A-12-3 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, to modify the powers and oversight responsibilities of the select committee for the West Virginia Fusion Center. Key changes include the repeal of the requirement for select committee members to have security clearance, allowing for greater access to the Fusion Center's operations. The select committee will now have the authority to inspect the Fusion Center's facilities and records during regular operating hours, with specific limitations on access to classified information and personal identifiers. Additionally, the bill establishes that meetings of the select committee will be confidential and that any information obtained will not be subject to the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act.

Furthermore, the bill mandates an annual audit of the Fusion Center by the Legislative Auditor, which must be completed and submitted to the select committee by December 1 each year. This audit will review various non-classified operations and records, ensuring compliance with federal standards and laws while recommending best practices for safeguarding sensitive information. The audit will not include access to classified systems or personal identifiable information, and findings of intentional violations may lead to revocation of access to the Fusion Center and potential legal action against involved employees.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15A-12-3
Committee Substitute: 15A-12-3