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Bill

HB 5253

Creating a domestic violence registry

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Pushkin

West Virginia bill would create domestic violence offender registry to track convicted abusers and protective order subjects for law enforcement and safety purposes.

To House Judiciary
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 5253

Legislative bill overview

HB 5253 would establish a domestic violence registry in West Virginia, creating a centralized database of individuals convicted of or with protective orders related to domestic violence offenses. The bill aims to improve public safety by making information about domestic violence offenders more accessible to relevant authorities and potentially the public.

Why is this important

Domestic violence registries are intended to enhance victim safety by enabling law enforcement, courts, and service providers to quickly identify repeat offenders and implement appropriate interventions. Such registries can also help inform custody decisions, employment screening, and protective order considerations, potentially preventing future incidents of intimate partner violence.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy and Due Process Concerns: Registry placement could significantly impact individuals' employment, housing, and social standing; questions arise about appropriate duration, expungement eligibility, and whether listing applies to all convictions or only felonies
  • Effectiveness and Cost: No consensus exists on whether registries substantially reduce recidivism; implementation requires funding for database maintenance, law enforcement training, and staff resources
  • Scope Ambiguity: Unclear whether the registry applies only to convicted offenders, individuals with active protective orders, or both; different thresholds create equity and enforcement challenges

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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