SB 491
WV Volunteer State Defense Guard Act
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill establishes the West Virginia Volunteer State Guard, a new component of the state’s organized guard. The guard would be activated by the Governor during emergencies and would be composed of volunteers. It defines key terms, outlines training and equipment requirements, and establishes liability protections for members. The bill aims to provide a state-level defense force that can be deployed when the National Guard is unavailable or engaged in other duties.
Key provisions
- Creates the West Virginia Volunteer State Guard as a separate component of the organized guard.
- Limits the guard’s membership to a maximum of 400 personnel.
- Defines terms related to the guard’s structure and operation.
- Establishes liability protections for members activated in good faith.
- Requires the guard to receive training equivalent to the West Virginia National Guard.
- Authorizes the Governor to determine staffing needs and commission officers.
- Specifies activation conditions, primarily during National Guard deployments or state emergencies.
- Grants the Adjutant General rulemaking authority and responsibility for organizing and equipping the guard.
Who is affected
- West Virginia Residents
- West Virginia National Guard Members
- The Governor of West Virginia
- The Adjutant General
- State and Local Emergency Responders
Notable changes
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