The proposed bill aims to establish the "Safe Library Books for Kids Committee" within the Department of Tourism in West Virginia. This committee will consist of the secretary of the Department of Tourism and four additional members appointed by the Governor, who will serve two-year terms without compensation. The committee is tasked with reviewing and creating a rating system for age-appropriate books in public libraries, starting with the youngest readers and progressing to teen and adult levels. The committee will also ensure that all books are placed in the appropriate sections of the library based on their ratings.

Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for violations of the new regulations, stating that anyone who fails to comply with the age-appropriateness rating system will be guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a minimum fine of $500 per occurrence. The legislation emphasizes the importance of maintaining appropriate reading materials for children and teens in public libraries while clarifying that adult-level books will not be rated.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 10-1B-1