CHARLESTON — A new bill introduced in the West Virginia House of Delegates would allow individuals with expunged felony convictions to serve on juries in the state.
House Bill 4098, sponsored by Del. Chuck Horst (R–Berkeley, 95) and 11 co-sponsors, was filed January 14 and referred to the House Judiciary Committee. The legislation would amend state law to restore jury service eligibility for those whose felony convictions have been expunged, effectively reinstating civic participation rights for people who have cleared their criminal records.
Under current law, a felony conviction disqualifies an individual from serving on a jury. The bill adds a key line stating:
“Provided, That any otherwise-qualified potential juror may serve on a jury within West Virginia if his or her felony conviction or convictions have been expunged.”
According to lawmakers, the measure is designed to ensure that citizens who have paid their debt to society and successfully cleared their records are fully able to participate in the judicial process.
HB 4098 is now under review by the House Judiciary Committee, where it will be considered before any potential vote by the full House of Delegates.
