WV HB2123

Increases penalties for repeat offenders of child abuse or neglect creating risk of bodily injury from a misdemeanor to a felony punishable by 1-5 years in state prison

Allows courts to double prison sentences for second or subsequent felony child abuse or neglect convictions, including convictions from other states or federal law with equivalent elements

Establishes tiered felony penalties for child abuse/neglect: 2-10 years for bodily injury, 5-15 years for serious bodily injury, and 1-10 years for creating substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury

First-offense misdemeanor child abuse or neglect creating risk of bodily injury carries fines of $100-$1,000 and/or up to 6 months in jail

Misdemeanor convictions may require parenting classes, substance abuse counseling, or anger management, but do not trigger sex offender registration or automatic custody restrictions