SB 614
Including step-siblings in Best Interests of Child Protection Act of 2022
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill amends West Virginia law to ensure that when determining the best interests of a child in custody cases, courts must consider meaningful contact between the child and their step-siblings. Currently, the law primarily focuses on biological and half-siblings. The bill aims to broaden the definition of ‘siblings’ to include step-siblings, recognizing the importance of these relationships for a child’s well-being. It reinforces the principle that the child’s best interests are paramount in custody decisions.
Key provisions
- Requires courts to consider meaningful contact between a child and step-siblings.
- Expands the definition of ‘siblings’ to include step-siblings in custody determinations.
- Reinforces the principle of considering the ‘best interests of the child’ in all custody decisions.
- Addresses custodial responsibility and decision-making responsibility of children.
- Clarifies the role of meaningful contact in these determinations.
Who is affected
- Parents involved in custody disputes
- Children involved in custody disputes
- Step-siblings of children involved in custody disputes
- Judges and court personnel involved in custody cases
- West Virginia state government
Notable changes
- Broadens the definition of ‘siblings’ to include step-siblings.
- Adds a specific consideration for meaningful contact with step-siblings when assessing a child’s best interests.
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours