WV HB2362

Recognizes correctional officers employed by the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation as law-enforcement officers who are exempt from standard certification requirements under §30-29-1 if they complete the commissioner's training program

Authorizes correctional officers to make arrests of persons surrendering on charges, arrest those in custody for violations occurring in their presence, detain/arrest for violations on facility property, and pursue and apprehend escapees

Allows the commissioner to designate correctional employees as "correctional peace officers" with authority to detain, investigate criminal activity within facilities, execute warrants, and obtain search warrants

Confirms that correctional officers with arrest powers who are authorized to carry firearms qualify as law-enforcement officers under the federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (18 U.S.C. § 926B), enabling concealed carry privileges

Extends provisions of §30-29-12 to all correctional officers who obtain and maintain their firearms certification from the commissioner