CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A proposed bill, HB 2925, aims to make certain forms of panhandling illegal in West Virginia while exempting fire departments from the restrictions.
Under the bill, panhandling is defined as any in-person solicitation for an immediate donation of money, including selling items at inflated prices where the purchase is effectively a donation.
Where Panhandling Would Be Prohibited:
- At bus or train stops
- Inside public transportation vehicles or facilities
- From vehicles on the street
- On private property without written permission
- On streets, sidewalks, or public property if the panhandler:
- Blocks someone’s path
- Follows a person who walks away
- Engages in threatening behavior
Penalties for Violations:
- First offense: $100 fine
- Second or subsequent offenses: $250 to $1,000 fine
The bill specifically exempts fire departments when soliciting donations to support their operations.
HB 2925 is currently under consideration in the West Virginia Legislature.
