2026 Regular Session
HB 5336
Relating to coercive control in domestic violence
In Committee
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill expands the definition of domestic violence in West Virginia to include ‘coercive control.’ Coercive control is defined as a pattern of behavior, such as isolating a person from their support network, controlling finances, and using threats, that aims to dominate and control an individual. The updated definition includes actions like monitoring, intimidation, and threats to harm or expose information.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘coercive control’ as a pattern of threatening, humiliating, or intimidating behaviors.
- Lists specific actions included in coercive control, such as isolating individuals and controlling finances.
- Includes threats of harm or exposure as part of coercive control.
- Expands the definition of domestic violence to encompass coercive control.
- Adds a new section to the West Virginia Code defining coercive control.
- Specifically mentions actions like damaging property and forcing participation in criminal activity.
- Covers threats to harm or kill the individual or relatives.
- Includes monitoring activities, communications, and movements.
Who is affected
- Victims of domestic violence
- Family members and household members
- Law enforcement
- Courts
- Social service agencies
Notable changes
- Adds a new definition of ‘coercive control’ to the existing domestic violence statute.
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