Bill > HB4456

This bill clarifies and expands the ability of law enforcement agencies in West Virginia to cooperate with each other and with agencies in bordering states. It defines "law-enforcement agency" to include various state and local entities authorized to enforce criminal law, such as the State Police, municipal police departments, and county sheriffs' offices. The bill allows the heads of these agencies to temporarily provide assistance to other state or federal law enforcement agencies investigating crimes, and importantly, it now explicitly permits West Virginia agencies to *receive* assistance from law enforcement agencies in adjoining states. This cooperation can include forming task forces, sharing personnel, equipment, and information, and can be initiated in writing or, in emergencies, verbally. While assisting other agencies, personnel retain their home agency's benefits and protections but are subject to the operational commands of the agency they are assisting. Any agreements for this cooperation must be filed with the local circuit clerk.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4456&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill