WV forfeiture bill dies in Committee
In 2026, the West Virginia House of Representatives introduced HB 4049, which would have provided a right to counsel for certain forfeiture defendants. Specifically, if a defendant were represented by the public defender in the criminal matter, they would also be entitled to representation in any related forfeiture proceeding.
Unfortunately, the bill died in Committee.
Bill Status: Dead
Last action (on 01/14/2026): To House Judiciary