HB 5400
Relating generally to punishment for child neglect resulting in death.
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill amends West Virginia law to increase the criminal penalties for parents, guardians, custodians, or individuals in positions of trust who negligently cause a child’s death. Specifically, it raises the potential prison sentence for such offenses, ranging from 10 to 20 years. The bill also includes an exception for children treated solely through religious healing methods that have a proven track record of success. Finally, it addresses cases where a court order requires medical treatment, allowing for consideration of neglect in those situations.
Key provisions
- Increases potential prison sentence for child neglect resulting in death to 10-20 years.
- Includes an exception for children treated solely through recognized religious healing methods.
- Allows for consideration of neglect in cases where medical treatment was inhibited due to a court order.
Who is affected
- Parents
- Guardians
- Custodians
- Individuals in positions of trust regarding children
- Children
Notable changes
- Raises the potential prison sentence for child neglect resulting in death.
- Establishes a specific exception for children treated through religious healing methods.
- Adds a provision regarding neglect when medical treatment is hindered by a court order.
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Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
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