HB 5206
To make certain acts of panhandling and solicitation unlawful
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill makes certain forms of panhandling and solicitation illegal in West Virginia. It requires individuals seeking donations to obtain a license or permit from their county sheriff, and establishes specific locations where panhandling is prohibited, such as near ATMs, schools, and bus stops. Violations carry misdemeanor penalties, with increasing fines for repeat offenses, and includes exemptions for fire departments, school organizations, and registered charities.
Key provisions
- Requires a state or county license/permit for legal panhandling.
- Prohibits panhandling in specific locations, including bus stops, ATMs, and near schools.
- Outlaws blocking pathways or following individuals during solicitation.
- Restricts panhandling hours to between 9 am and 6 pm.
- Prohibits rendering services to vehicles without consent.
- Exempts fire departments, school organizations, and registered charities from licensing requirements.
- Establishes misdemeanor penalties for violations, increasing with subsequent offenses.
- Permit revocation for third offenses, subject to public harassment laws.
Who is affected
- Individuals engaging in panhandling or solicitation
- Property owners and occupants
- Businesses and commercial establishments
- County sheriffs and county governments
- Residents of West Virginia
Notable changes
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