SB 595
Requiring both parents consent for non-emergency and non-life-threatening procedures on children
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill changes West Virginia law to require both parents’ consent for non-emergency and non-life-threatening medical procedures performed on their child. Currently, a custodial parent could make these decisions without the other parent’s agreement. The bill aims to ensure both parents have a voice in their child’s healthcare decisions. It clarifies that parents must agree on these procedures before they can be performed.
Key provisions
- Requires both parents’ consent for non-emergency and non-life-threatening medical procedures.
- Applies to children under the care of a custodial parent.
- Clarifies that the court will consider parental cooperation and ability when allocating decision-making responsibility.
- Specifies that parents must agree on these procedures before they can be performed.
- Addresses the allocation of significant life decisions, including healthcare, between parents.
- Outlines factors the court will consider when determining parental decision-making responsibility.
- Reinforces parental responsibility for day-to-day decisions and emergency health situations.
Who is affected
- Parents of children in West Virginia
- Custodial parents of children
- Healthcare providers in West Virginia
- Judges and court personnel in West Virginia
Notable changes
- Previously, a custodial parent could make non-emergency medical decisions without the other parent's consent.
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