This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the responsibilities of the Office of Insurance Commissioner regarding the management of bondsmen lists. It mandates that the Office maintain and post a typewritten or printed list of all licensed professional surety and property bondsmen, which must be displayed in various detention facilities and courts. The bill specifies that detainees must have access to this list and the ability to communicate with their chosen bondsman. Additionally, it establishes that the Office of Insurance Commissioner has exclusive authority over the creation, certification, and distribution of these lists, prohibiting any other entity from maintaining or posting such lists.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Office to prepare geographically specific lists for each county and detention facility, ensuring that only those bondsmen who operate within a 50-mile radius are included. It also mandates the maintenance of a statewide master list that includes essential information about each bondsman. The bill grants the Office rule-making authority to implement these provisions and sets legibility requirements for the posted lists, ensuring they are clear and readable. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the process for detainees to access bondsmen while ensuring compliance and oversight by the Office of Insurance Commissioner.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 51-10-6