Ranson Lawmaker Proposes Annual Fee for Sex Offender Registry
Delegates Consider Annual Fee For Sex Offenders; Some Worry It’s Overly Punitive
West Virginia Public Broadcasting | Thursday, March 20, 2025
West Virginia lawmakers, including Del. Bill Flanigan from Ranson, are debating House Bill 3164, which proposes a $250 annual fee for individuals registered on the state’s sex offender registry. Advocates argue it would alleviate financial burdens on taxpayers and aid law enforcement, which is already stretched thin. However, some legislators express concern that this fee could be an undue hardship on those seeking rehabilitation, especially in communities like Charles Town and Harpers Ferry where job opportunities may be limited. The proposed legislation, discussed during a public hearing, could generate nearly $1.6 million annually to help maintain the registry but raises questions about its fairness and enforcement mechanisms.
