Criminal Justice (Corrections)

HB 4988 would impose a life sentence on individuals convicted of knowingly distributing fentanyl, either alone or mixed with other substances. This amendment to West Virginia’s drug law specifically increases penalties for fentanyl trafficking under §60A-4-401(a)(i), replacing standard prison terms with life imprisonment when the dealer knew the substance was fentanyl. It directly affects convicted fentanyl dealers (not users or other drug offenses) who meet the "knowing" threshold. The bill targets fentanyl specifically, as other drug offenses retain lower penalties under the existing code.

HB 4566 increases penalties for drivers who flee the scene of a crash causing injury or death in West Virginia. It raises fines and prison terms based on severity: up to $1,000 or one year in jail for bodily injury, up to $2,500 or three years for serious injury, and up to $5,000 or 20 years for death (with death occurring within one year of the crash). The bill also mandates a one-year license revocation for convicted offenders. It defines "serious bodily injury" as injury creating substantial risk of death, disfigurement, or prolonged health impairment, and names the law "Erin’s Law."

HB 4406 would restore voting rights for West Virginia residents convicted of felonies upon their release from incarceration, including release through pardon, parole, probation, or completion of sentence. Currently, these individuals are barred from voting while serving their sentence, but the bill removes this restriction immediately upon release. The change allows formerly incarcerated people to register and vote without additional legal steps once they are released from prison or supervision. This policy directly affects all individuals in West Virginia who have been convicted of a felony and are released under these conditions.