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WV HB4722

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/22/2026

Primary Sponsor

Scot Heckert

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Creates the criminal offense of "false judicial accusation" for knowingly making, repeating, or republishing false allegations in judicial proceedings after being notified the claims were determined to be false

  • First offense is a misdemeanor; second or subsequent offenses are felonies, with enhanced felony penalties if the false allegation results in arrest, custody loss, protective orders, or job/license loss

  • Requires courts to order restitution, corrective notices to affected agencies, and expungement assistance for records related to the false allegation upon conviction

  • Establishes a private civil cause of action for victims to recover damages, attorney fees, and treble damages for repeat or aggravated violations

  • Directs the Supreme Court of Appeals to maintain a confidential registry of convicted offenders for judicial and prosecutorial use only, while providing safe harbor protections for good-faith reports and timely recantations

Legislative Description

Relating to false judicial accusations after a determination of falsity

Courts

Last Action

To House Judiciary

1/22/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary1/22/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available