Bill > HB2429

This bill modifies the existing law regarding the powers and duties of natural resources police officers in West Virginia, specifically focusing on their ability to enter private property. The bill requires that natural resources police officers obtain either a warrant or explicit/implied permission from the landowner before entering private lands or waters while performing their official duties. An important exception is added that allows officers to enter private property without permission in emergency situations where there are imminent threats to public safety that require immediate intervention. The bill maintains the officers' existing broad powers, such as making arrests, carrying weapons, conducting searches, and executing warrants, but adds a new layer of protection for private property rights by mandating either landowner consent or a judicial warrant before routine entry. This change aims to balance the need for effective law enforcement with protecting citizens' privacy and property rights, ensuring that natural resources police officers cannot arbitrarily enter private lands without proper legal authorization or a genuine public safety emergency.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2429&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill