Bill > HB4287

This bill, titled "The Protection of Shared Physical and Digital Property from Warrantless Searches Act," establishes a new law in West Virginia that aims to protect individuals' rights to privacy and security in their physical and digital property, even when that property is shared with third parties for the purpose of obtaining goods and services. The bill provides definitions for key terms like "digital property," "physical property," and "third party," and sets forth specific conditions under which government agents can search or seize such property without a warrant, such as with the owner's permission or in exigent circumstances. The bill also makes any evidence obtained through unlawful searches or seizures inadmissible in legal proceedings and allows individuals whose rights have been violated to pursue civil actions. Finally, the bill sets an effective date of July 31, 2024.