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HB 2401

Relating to revising the criminal code generally

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brandon Steele

House Bill 2401 overhauls West Virginia's criminal code by repealing over 100 sections, amending others, and introducing new provisions, impacting law enforcement and the public.

To House Judiciary
#crime
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2401

Summary of House Bill 2401

Bill Number: HB 2401
Title: Relating to revising the criminal code generally
Status: To House Judiciary
Introduced: February 17, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Crime

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2401 aims to comprehensively revise the criminal code of West Virginia. The bill seeks to repeal numerous existing sections of the code while also amending and reenacting several others. The intent behind this legislative effort is to streamline and modernize the state's criminal laws, potentially improving clarity and enforcement.

Key Provisions

The bill includes the following significant actions:

  1. Repeals:

    • The bill proposes the repeal of multiple sections from the Code of West Virginia, including but not limited to:
      • Sections 55-9-1, 55-9-2, and 55-9-3
      • Sections 61-1-4 through 61-11-22, which encompass various criminal offenses and definitions.
    • A total of over 100 sections are targeted for repeal, indicating a substantial overhaul of existing laws.

  2. Amendments and Reenactments:

    • The bill also aims to amend and reenact several sections of the criminal code, including:
      • Sections 15-12-8, 19-1A-3b, and 29-22-12, among others.
    • These amendments may involve updates to definitions, penalties, or procedural requirements.

  3. New Provisions:

    • The introduction of new articles and sections is proposed, which may establish new legal frameworks or clarify existing laws.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

  • Law Enforcement: The changes may impact how law enforcement agencies interpret and enforce criminal laws.
  • Legal Professionals: Attorneys and judges will need to familiarize themselves with the revised code, which could affect ongoing and future cases.
  • General Public: Citizens may experience changes in legal standards and penalties for various offenses, depending on the specific amendments made.

Procedural Aspects

  • Timeline: The bill was filed and introduced on February 17, 2025, and has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee for further consideration.
  • Next Steps: The bill will undergo review and discussion in the committee, where amendments may be proposed before it is potentially brought to the floor for a vote.

Conclusion

House Bill 2401 represents a significant legislative effort to revise West Virginia's criminal code. By repealing outdated sections and amending existing laws, the bill aims to create a more coherent and effective legal framework. Stakeholders, including law enforcement, legal professionals, and the public, should stay informed about the developments surrounding this bill as it progresses through the legislative process.

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

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