HB4552

Relating to the law-enforcement powers of correctional officers

Complete·3/14/26

Clarifies law-enforcement powers of correctional officers in West Virginia, including authority to carry firearms.

This bill amends the law to clarify the law-enforcement powers of correctional officers in West Virginia. It specifies that correctional officers employed by the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation are law-enforcement officers, with authority to make arrests, conduct investigations, and carry firearms. The commissioner has the authority to designate correctional employees as correctional peace officers, who can detain persons for violations of state law on facility property. Correctional officers can carry division-issued firearms while on duty, including travel to and from work sites.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Sponsors

0
6
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Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

96 Yea

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0 Nay

3 Absent

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Calendar

Mar 9

12:00 AM

Senate Judiciary Committee Meeting

Feb 2

9:00 AM

Standing Committee on the Judiciary Meeting

History

Apr 2

House

Approved by Governor 4/1/2026

Mar 25

House

To Governor 3/25/2026

Mar 14

House

House received Senate message