HB 3378
Two party consent for legislative offices
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill establishes a reasonable expectation of privacy for West Virginia legislators within their private offices, including those located in the State Capitol. It prohibits unauthorized recording or surveillance of communications or devices within these offices without explicit consent. The bill outlines penalties for violations, including imprisonment and fines. It also clarifies that certain security measures and legally authorized surveillance are exempt.
Key provisions
- Requires two-party consent for recording communications within a legislator’s private office.
- Prohibits the installation or operation of recording devices without explicit consent.
- Prohibits the disclosure or dissemination of unlawfully obtained recordings.
- Exempts legislative security measures and legally authorized surveillance.
- Defines violations as felonies with potential imprisonment and fines.
Who is affected
- West Virginia Legislators
- Legislative Staff
- Visitors to the State Capitol
- Journalists
- Third Parties
Notable changes
- Creates a specific expectation of privacy for legislators in their offices.
- Adds a new section to the West Virginia Code regarding legislative office privacy.
- Establishes penalties for violating the privacy protections.
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