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WV HB5322
Bill
Status
Introduced
2/9/2026
Primary Sponsor
Dave Foggin
Click for details
AI Summary
- Prohibits sexual abuse of animals, defined as touching or contacting an animal's mouth, anus, or sex organs for sexual gratification, including causing others to do so or organizing/observing such acts
- First-time violations carry misdemeanor penalties of up to 12 months in jail and/or fines of $300-$2,000
- Elevates offense to a felony (1-5 years imprisonment, $1,000-$5,000 fine) for repeat offenders, those with prior sexual assault convictions, or when the animal suffers serious injury or death
- Involving a child under 18 in animal sexual abuse constitutes a felony punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and/or up to $10,000 fine
- Convicted individuals must forfeit all owned animals, pay care costs, and are banned from owning or residing with animals for minimum 5 years (misdemeanor) or 15 years (felony), with mandatory psychiatric evaluation required before probation
Legislative Description
Relating to Animal Abuse
Public Safety
Last Action
To House Judiciary
2/9/2026
Committee Referrals
Judiciary2/9/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available