SB 944
Expanding categories of eligible federal law-enforcement officers authorized to enforce state laws
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill expands the categories of federal law enforcement officers authorized to enforce West Virginia state laws under specific circumstances. Federal officers can assist state law enforcement with requests, during emergencies, or when investigating felonies. It also grants specific arrest and search powers to certain federal officers working within national parks and national forests. The bill outlines rules regarding their authority, exemptions, and liability.
Key provisions
- Federal officers can be requested to assist state law enforcement in emergencies or when investigating felonies.
- Federal officers listed in the bill (including FBI, DEA, Marshals, Postal Inspectors, IRS, Secret Service, ATF, etc.) can enforce state laws.
- Law enforcement commissioned rangers of the National Park Service have arrest and search powers within national parks.
- US Forest Service law enforcement officers have arrest and search powers within national forests.
- Federal officers are subject to the same exemptions and exceptions as state law enforcement officers.
- Federal officers are not considered employees of state or local law enforcement agencies.
- Federal officers are subject to the Federal Tort Claims Act and have similar immunities to state law enforcement officers.
- Specific provisions for military law enforcement personnel and National Guard members conducting law enforcement missions.
Who is affected
- Federal Law Enforcement Officers
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