Creating a statutory right to petition circuit and family courts for sibling visitation

HB 3478 creates a legal process allowing siblings aged 18 or older to request court-ordered visitation with minor siblings (under 18) in West Virginia. It permits siblings - defined as blood, half, step, or adoptive brothers or sisters - to petition family or circuit courts in the minor child’s county, either during ongoing custody cases or when no such case is pending. The bill requires courts to prioritize the minor child’s best interests when considering these requests, with siblings not gaining formal party status but potentially being called as witnesses. This bill directly affects minors who may have existing sibling relationships and the courts handling family matters in West Virginia.