Relating to authorizing the Division of Protective Services to promulgate a legislative rule relating to ranks and duties of officers within the membership of the division

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Smith

House Bill 2257 empowers West Virginia's Division of Protective Services to define officer ranks and duties, enhancing clarity and efficiency in their operations.

To House Homeland Security

#legislature--rulemaking

Summary of House Bill 2257

Bill Number: HB 2257
Title: Relating to authorizing the Division of Protective Services to promulgate a legislative rule relating to ranks and duties of officers within the membership of the division
Status: To House Homeland Security
Introduced: January 29, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Legislature--Rule Making

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2257 aims to authorize the Division of Protective Services in West Virginia to create and implement a legislative rule that outlines the ranks and duties of its officers. This legislative action is intended to formalize the structure and responsibilities within the division, ensuring clarity and consistency in the roles of its members.

Key Provisions

Authorization of Legislative Rule: The bill specifically authorizes the Division of Protective Services to promulgate a legislative rule concerning the ranks and duties of its officers. This rule is intended to enhance operational efficiency and accountability within the division.

Reference to Existing Code: The bill amends §64-6-1 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, which pertains to the Division of Protective Services. The rule in question was previously filed in the State Register on August 28, 2024, under the authority of §15-2D-3 of the code.

Impact

Division of Protective Services: The primary entity affected by this bill is the Division of Protective Services, which will gain the authority to define the ranks and responsibilities of its officers. This change is expected to improve organizational structure and operational clarity.

Officers within the Division: Current and future officers of the Division of Protective Services will be directly impacted as the new ranks and duties will dictate their roles, responsibilities, and career progression within the division.

Legislative Timeline

January 29, 2025: Bill filed with the Clerk by Rep. Tony M. McCombie.

February 4, 2025: First reading and referred to the Rules Committee.

February 12, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the Judiciary Committee.

February 18, 2025: Sent to House Homeland Security.

March 4, 2025: Assigned to the Executive Committee.

March 12, 2025: Passed in the Executive Committee with a vote of 12-0-0.

March 27, 2025: Held on the Calendar Order for Second Reading.

May 31, 2025: Rule 19(a) re-referred to the Rules Committee; Third Reading Deadline extended.

Conclusion

House Bill 2257 is a legislative initiative aimed at enhancing the operational framework of the Division of Protective Services in West Virginia. By authorizing the promulgation of a rule regarding the ranks and duties of its officers, the bill seeks to establish a clear and structured approach to the division's internal organization. The bill is currently under consideration in the House Homeland Security Committee, with several legislative actions already taken to advance its progress.