Signed by Governor Jim Justice, Jr.

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits and criminalizes sharing health care workers' personal information on the internet with the intent of harming them in the state of West Virginia.

Highlights:

• Prohibits individuals from sharing health care workers' personal information on the internet with the intent of harming them (Article 8).

• Specifies individuals found guilty will be convicted of a misdemeanor with a fine of $500 and a prison sentence of 6 months upon the first offense, and a fine of $1,000 and up to a one-year prison sentence for subsequent violations (Article 8).

• Defines "Health care worker" as an individual who is an employee of a health care entity, a subcontractor, or an independent contractor for a health care entity, or an employee of the subcontractor or independent contractor, including (Article 8):

• A nurse or nurse’s aide;

• Laboratory technician, physician, intern, resident, or physician assistant;

• Physical therapist or any other person who provides direct patient care;

• First responder, or any person serving in a governance capacity of a healthcare entity.

• Specifies that the provisions of this bill shall take effect immediately upon passage and approval by the governor (Article 8).

Full Bill Text