The West Virginia House of Delegates has overwhelmingly passed a bill that would increase penalties for anyone who causes the death of a police officer or a first responder. Approved earlier by the Senate, the Patrol Officer Cassie Marie Johnson Memorial Act was passed by the House by a vote of 94-0. The Senate will have to agree with the House changes before the bill goes to the governor’s desk. Senate Bill 490 is named after Charleston Patrolman Cassie Johnson, who was shot and killed in the line of duty in December 2020. Under the bill, a new crime of obstructing, causing death would be created. It applies to law enforcement officers, probation officers, parole officers, courthouse security officers, correctional officers, state fire marshals, deputies, firefighters and emergency service personnel. Under the bill, the offense would be considered a felony punishable to 15 years to life in prison.