Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that requires bystanders to remain at least 30 feet away from first responders following a verbal warning in West Virginia.

Highlights:

• Requires bystanders to stand 30 feet back from first responders, such as law-enforcement officers, probation officers, or firefighters or emergency responders, who are engaging in the lawful performance of their duties (Sec. 1). 

• Prohibits a person from approaching a first responder, after receiving a verbal warning, who is performing their legal duty (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that an individual violates the warning if they remain within the 30 feet after a verbal warning, in a way that may (Sec. 1): 

• Impede or interfere with the first responder’s ability to perform their duty;

• Threaten or menace the first responder with physical harm; or

• Harass the first responder. 

• Classifies violation of this section as a misdemeanor and establishes a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $500, confinement in jail for not more than 1 year, or both (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text