Bill > HB3466

This bill aims to enhance safety at rest areas and welcome centers in West Virginia by mandating the installation of emergency "blue light" stations, which are alert systems similar to those found on college campuses. The bill first provides legislative findings that explain the potential benefits of these emergency alert stations, including their ability to help prevent human trafficking, assist in potential child abduction cases, and provide a quick response mechanism for domestic violence incidents. The Division of Highways is required to install these towers at all rest areas and welcome centers, with specific requirements that each station must have the capability to connect to local dispatch, be equipped with cameras and video technology, and be funded by the division. These "blue light" stations will allow individuals in distress to immediately call for help by pressing a button, which will alert local police or dispatch and potentially provide visual evidence through the integrated camera system. The bill is set to become effective on July 1, 2025, giving the Division of Highways time to plan and implement the emergency alert stations across the state's rest areas and welcome centers.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=3466&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill