SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 49

(By Senators Trump and Snyder)

[Originating in the Committee on the Judiciary]

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the placement of magistrates within regional jails for purposes relating to criminal procedure.

            Whereas, Concern has arisen relating to the availability of magistrates to conveniently handle certain matters relating to the initiation of charges, including arraignment; and

            Whereas, The Legislature wishes to study, for potential consideration for adoption, best practices as it relates to the administration of justice; and

            Whereas, Neighboring states, particularly the Commonwealth of Virginia, place magistrates within the several regional jails to conduct arraignments and for other purposes; therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

            That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study the placement of magistrates within regional jails for purposes relating to criminal procedure; and, be it

            Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is requested to study the practices of the Commonwealth of Virginia with respect to the placement of judicial officers within regional jails for purposes of facilitating the administration of justice; and be it

            Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2016, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

            Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.