WV HB4403

Requires all homeless shelters in West Virginia to register annually with the Bureau for Public Health and obtain a Certificate of Operation to legally operate, effective July 1, 2026

Mandates shelters meet minimum standards including health and sanitation requirements, fire safety standards, criminal background checks for staff and volunteers, and proof of liability insurance

Authorizes the Bureau to conduct announced or unannounced inspections and impose penalties including civil fines up to $5,000 per violation, temporary suspension, or revocation of operating certificates

Establishes resident rights including access to a safe and clean environment, freedom from discrimination and abuse, grievance procedures without retaliation, and confidential handling of personal information

Permits faith-based organizations to retain religious protections under federal law while still requiring compliance with health and safety standards