Modifying witness fee and mileage rate paid by state to match federal court system

Senate Bill 186 (SB 186) would increase witness fees in West Virginia courts to match current federal rates. Specifically, it would raise the daily attendance fee from $10-$20 to $40 per day and adjust mileage reimbursement to align with the state’s standard rate for employees using personal vehicles (currently 15 cents per mile, but now tied to the state’s official travel rate). This change directly affects witnesses summoned to testify in West Virginia state courts, excluding grand jury and justices of the peace proceedings. The bill aims to standardize compensation for witnesses appearing in state court with the federal system, ensuring parity for those traveling for court appearances.