SB 174 West Virginia Senate · 2026 Regular Session

Updating language and increasing penalties for indecent exposure

Senate Bill 174 creates a new felony offense for indecent exposure in front of minors in West Virginia, defined as exposing one's genitals (penis, vagina, or anus) to a minor. It requires individuals convicted of this offense to register as sex offenders under the Sex Offender Registration Act and increases penalties, including fines and imprisonment for third offenses, with enhanced penalties for repeat violations. The bill also removes a breastfeeding exemption, stating that the clarified definition makes it unnecessary. This legislation updates penalties and registration requirements to strengthen protections for minors.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 14, 2026 Last action Jan 14, 2026
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Full legislative history

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Total actions
3
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0
Committee
1
Jan 14, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in Senate
upper
Jan 14, 2026
Committee
To Judiciary
upper
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

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