West Virginia Senate Advances Death Penalty Bill for Law Enforcement Killings

West Virginia's Senate is advancing legislation to partially reinstate the death penalty, specifically for those convicted of intentionally killing law enforcement officers or first responders during their official duties. Senate Bill 264, sponsored by Sen. Mike Stuart, aims to address a perceived increase in violence against these individuals, with a significant focus on ensuring legal protections for first responders. The bill has faced criticism, with some lawmakers expressing concern over its moral implications and the potential for wrongful convictions. It also includes provisions for post-conviction DNA testing to safeguard against errors in the justice system. The estimated implementation cost of around $26 million raises questions about the state's budget, particularly regarding the construction of a death row facility. The bill has passed through the Senate Judiciary Committee and will now move to the Senate Finance Committee for further consideration.