Bill > HB4857

This bill amends West Virginia law to make the act of transporting a "telecommunication device" into a jail, state correctional facility, juvenile facility, or juvenile detention center a felony offense. A telecommunication device is broadly defined to include any equipment capable of transmitting phone, electronic, digital, cellular, or radio communications, such as cell phones or modems. Previously, transporting such a device into these facilities was a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine and/or jail time. This change elevates the offense to a felony, carrying a potential fine of $1,000 to $5,000 and/or imprisonment in a state correctional facility for two to ten years, reflecting a legislative intent to increase penalties for introducing these communication tools into correctional settings.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4857&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill