CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The House of Delegates met this morning for Day 15 of the 87th Legislative Session.
No bills were up for passage today.
Three bills were on second reading today. Two bills advanced; House Bill 2354 had action postponed again.
House Bill 2123 increases the criminal penalties imposed on a parent, guardian, custodian, or person in a position of trust in child abuse, resulting in injury and child abuse or neglect, creating a risk of injury.
- Abuse causing bodily harm imprisonment increased from 1-5 years to 2-10 years.
- Abuse causing serious bodily harm imprisonment increased from 2-10 years to 5-15 years.
- Abuse creates a substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury, and imprisonment increases from 1-5 years to 2-10 years.
- Second offense imprisonment increased from 1-3 years to 1-5 years
- Neglect creating a substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury, imprisonment increased from 1-5 years to 1-10 years
- Subsequent felony offenses can result in twice the imprisonment and fine amount
House Bill 2047 prohibits cameras in the bedrooms or bathrooms of foster homes. The bill allows for a few exceptions. Baby monitors are allowed when age-appropriate or the child has a medical diagnosis of severe physical disabilities or behavior, cognitive, or psychological disorders. Medical equipment with or without cameras is allowed for a child who has a medical diagnosis of severe physical disabilities or behavior, cognitive, or psychological disorders. Any exempted equipment must be in clear view and not in a hidden location.
