House 4723

WEST virginia legislature

2026 regular session

Introduced

House Bill 4723

By Delegate Pritt

[Introduced January 22, 2026; referred to the Committee on Government Organization]

A BILL to amend the Code of West Virginia, 1931, by adding a new section, designated §17C-14-16, relating to prohibiting the operation of a "squatted vehicle" in West Virginia; providing for a definition; and providing for penalties.

Be it enacted by the Legislature of West Virginia:

ARTICLE 14. MISCELLANEOUS RULES.

§17C-14-16. Prohibition of "squatted" vehicles.

(a) Effective July 1, 2026, it shall be illegal to operate a "squatted" vehicle on West Virginia roads.

(b) "Squatted" vehicles include those with a front or rear fender raised four or more inches higher than the other.

(c) West Virginia law enforcement shall only issue warning citations for the first six months after the effective date.

(d) On January 1, 2027, drivers shall begin to receive tickets for violations. The following penalties for violations are established:

(1) First Offense - $100 fine;

(2) Second Offense - $200 fine; and

(3) Third Offense - $300 fine and a license suspension by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles for twelve months from the date of conviction.

NOTE: The purpose of this bill is prohibit the operation of a squatted vehicle in West Virginia.

Strike-throughs indicate language that would be stricken from a heading or the present law and underscoring indicates new language that would be added.