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

HB 2679 allows retired deputy sheriffs in West Virginia to seek reinstatement with their former departments within five years of resignation, extending the previous two-year window. To qualify, applicants must have served over six months before resigning, have no pending misconduct charges, reside in the same county, and pass medical and psychological exams. The sheriff retains full discretion to approve or deny reinstatement, and successful applicants would be placed at the lowest rank above probationers. This bill directly affects former deputy sheriffs who left their positions voluntarily and wish to return to law enforcement in their home county.