WV SB503

Sheriffs may appoint more than one chief deputy with county commission consent

Chief deputies are prohibited from soliciting political contributions from sheriff's department employees, using official authority to influence elections while in uniform (except when voting), coercing political contributions, or holding other public office in their county

Chief deputies who violate political activity restrictions will have their appointments vacated and be removed from their positions

Local conservators of the peace may now carry firearms in compliance with West Virginia law, removing the previous requirement to obtain a license and post a bond under §61-7-2

Updates outdated terminology throughout the statute, replacing "county court" with "county commission" and adding gender-neutral language