Establishing an animal abuser registry

HB 2204 creates a state registry for individuals convicted of specific felony animal abuse crimes in West Virginia. It requires adults convicted under sections 19-20-12, 61-8-9, 61-8-9a, or 61-8-9b to register with local law enforcement within 11 days of entering the state or moving within it, providing detailed personal information including address, Social Security number, and photo/fingerprints. Registered individuals must renew annually for 15 years, with failure to register or provide false information punishable as a misdemeanor (or felony for repeat offenses). The State Police will maintain a central registry with public access to most information (excluding Social Security numbers), and local agencies must notify nearby residences, schools, and animal shelters about registered individuals.