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WV HB4980
Bill
Status
Introduced
1/29/2026
Primary Sponsor
Bill Ridenour
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AI Summary
- Creates civil liability for judges who knowingly violate the law, conduct unlawful hearings, or abuse litigants, removing judicial immunity for willful misconduct proven by clear and convincing evidence
- Allows harmed individuals to sue judges for compensatory damages, punitive damages for egregious conduct, injunctive relief, and attorney's fees
- Requires plaintiffs to first file a complaint with the Judicial Investigation Commission and receive a determination of willful misconduct before initiating a civil lawsuit
- Mandates all Judicial Investigation Commission filings be made public and requires findings be submitted to the House Judiciary Committee within five days
- Establishes a five-year statute of limitations from the date the Commission concludes misconduct occurred, with an effective date of July 1, 2026
Legislative Description
To establish civil liability for judges who knowingly violate the law, conduct unlawful hearings, or abuse litigants in the performance of their duties
Courts
Last Action
To House Judiciary
1/29/2026
Committee Referrals
Judiciary1/29/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available