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Bill

HB 4872

To allow for the reinstatement of retired Deputy Sheriffs to their former departments.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Larry Kump and 1 co-sponsor

HB 4872 permits retired Deputy Sheriffs in West Virginia to return to employment with their former sheriff's departments, addressing potential staffing needs with experienced personnel.

To House Judiciary
#countyofficials
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4872

Legislative bill overview

HB 4872 would permit retired Deputy Sheriffs in West Virginia to return to employment with their former sheriff's departments. The bill appears to create a pathway for reinstating individuals who had previously left law enforcement through retirement. This is a narrow, procedural bill affecting personnel policies within county sheriff's offices.

Why is this important

Sheriff's departments often face staffing challenges and recruitment difficulties, particularly in rural areas. Allowing experienced retired deputies to return could provide departments with trained personnel who already understand local operations and procedures. However, this could also impact hiring opportunities for new candidates and raise questions about pension or benefits implications for reinstated employees.

Potential points of contention

  • Pension and benefits complications: Unclear whether reinstated deputies would maintain previous pension benefits, double-dip benefits, or restart accrual—creating potential fiscal liability for counties
  • Impact on new hiring: Prioritizing retired deputies for positions could limit employment opportunities for new candidates seeking to enter law enforcement
  • Eligibility standards: The bill doesn't specify whether all retired deputies qualify for reinstatement or if there are age, health, performance, or tenure requirements that should apply

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

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