Del. Buck Jennings

Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution (HCR 57) declares that the People's Republic of China (PRC) is conducting an "illegal asymmetric war" against the U.S. and West Virginia, citing alleged tactics like cyberattacks, influence operations, and the use of fentanyl or engineered diseases. It directs state officials to forgive public debt held by PRC-affiliated entities since October 2019 and identify such entities for potential debt recovery. The resolution also urges the Governor and state agencies to take actions countering this alleged "war" and invites other states to adopt similar statements. As a non-binding resolution, it does not create new laws but formally positions West Virginia’s stance on China-related issues.

Maddy summaryHB 2714 requires new wind energy systems in West Virginia to maintain minimum distances from residential properties, property lines, roads, and transmission lines. Specifically, wind turbines must be placed at least 1.1 times the total height of the turbine (tower + blades) from property lines and roads/transmission lines, and 1.5 times the height from residences. Property owners can voluntarily waive these distances by signing a written agreement. The bill applies to new projects seeking a siting certificate from the Public Service Commission, directly affecting wind energy developers and nearby residents. It does not apply to modifications of existing wind energy systems.

Maddy summaryHB 2617 amends West Virginia law to require law enforcement to obtain a warrant before entering privately owned land that is posted with "No Trespassing" signs, except in emergencies. The bill directly affects landowners who post their property and law enforcement agencies by clarifying that warrantless entry is generally prohibited. Key provisions include updating §20-1-7 (which governs Natural Resources entry powers) to add these warrant requirements and clarifying that surveillance cameras on or near posted private lands must comply with these rules. The bill does not change existing emergency exceptions for law enforcement entry during immediate threats.

Maddy summaryHCR 53 is a House Concurrent Resolution (not a law) affirming West Virginia's constitutional right to legal standing in matters affecting its residents. It states the state recognizes no judicial authority that denies West Virginia's standing in issues impacting its people, citing the Tenth Amendment, the Declaration of Independence, and West Virginia's own Constitution. The resolution declares any effort to restrict this standing "illegal, void, and an attack on the sovereignty of the People and State." As a concurrent resolution, it expresses the legislature's position but does not create new law or directly affect residents.

Maddy summaryHJR 13 proposes amending the West Virginia Constitution to prohibit non-U.S. citizens from voting in any state election. It directly affects non-citizen residents who currently participate in West Virginia elections. The bill would add a new provision to Article IV of the state constitution explicitly stating that "no person who is not a citizen of the United States shall be entitled to vote at any election held within this state." This is a constitutional amendment requiring voter approval at the next general election, not an immediate law.

Maddy summaryHB 2432 expands which federal law enforcement officers can enforce West Virginia state laws by adding 19 specific federal agency roles to the existing list. It allows officers from agencies like the FBI, DEA, Border Patrol, Coast Guard, and federal prisons to assist state/local agencies under three conditions: when requested in writing (or verbally in emergencies), when a local officer requests help during exigent circumstances, or when witnessing a felony. The bill clarifies these officers have the same legal authority and immunities as state officers but cannot conduct independent investigations beyond preserving immediate evidence. It directly affects state/local law enforcement agencies seeking federal assistance and the 19 federal agencies listed in subsection (b). The bill does not change existing law enforcement procedures but broadens eligibility for federal officers to collaborate with state agencies.

Maddy summaryHR 5 is a non-binding resolution designating October as "Military Toxic Exposure Awareness Month" in West Virginia. It recognizes the health impacts of toxic exposures on military personnel, veterans (including Agent Orange veterans), workers, and their families, particularly those linked to West Virginia military sites. The resolution encourages public awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and community outreach to support affected individuals, directing copies to state agencies and congressional leaders. It does not create new laws or funding but aims to raise visibility for ongoing health and environmental concerns.

Maddy summaryHCR 48 is a concurrent resolution from the West Virginia Legislature urging Congress to call a constitutional convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. It specifically requests a convention limited to proposing amendments focused on federal fiscal responsibility, citing rising national debt ($36 trillion) and inflation concerns. The resolution directs West Virginia to seek federal court action if Congress fails to comply and invites other states to convene a state-level meeting by July 2026 to draft fiscal amendments for state ballot consideration. As a procedural resolution - not a law - it does not change policy but formally requests action from Congress.

Maddy summaryHB 2445 removes qualified immunity for West Virginia law enforcement officers who use excessive force or act negligently during no-knock warrant executions. The bill requires courts to review officer actions if they cause injury, death, or psychological harm through reckless, negligent, or knowingly illegal conduct - such as using excessive force or failing to follow proper procedures. Courts must also examine whether the officer's agency provided adequate training for such situations, potentially making the agency liable for the officer's actions. This change means officers and their departments could face personal financial or legal consequences in lawsuits when misconduct occurs during no-knock warrants.

Maddy summaryHB 2367 creates a web-based communication system for West Virginia's foster care system, requiring the Department of Health and Human Resources to implement it by July 1, 2026. The system will let foster and kinship parents access records, communicate with caseworkers, view visitation schedules, and receive health information - while ensuring only authorized parties can use it. It also establishes a "Foster and Kinship Parent Bill of Rights" listing specific rights, including the right to receive training, maintain family values (without harming the child), and be notified of child-related risks before placement. The bill directly affects foster parents, kinship caregivers, and child welfare staff by improving transparency and decision-making in foster care.