WV Volunteer State Defense Guard Act

SB 491, the West Virginia Volunteer State Guard Act, creates a new state military force separate from the West Virginia National Guard. It establishes a maximum of 400 eligible members who must be West Virginia residents and U.S. citizens with no felony convictions, excluding active military or National Guard members. The Guard can only be activated by the Governor during state emergencies or when the National Guard is in federal service, and must provide training equivalent to the National Guard. The Adjutant General will manage recruitment, training, and equipment, with all members operating exclusively within West Virginia under the Governor's command.