HB 4621 West Virginia House of Delegates · 2026 Regular Session

Relating to requiring the circuit court to make certain designated findings of fact and conclusions of law in its juvenile child abuse and neglect orders

HB 4621 requires West Virginia circuit courts to include specific written findings of fact and conclusions of law in all juvenile child abuse and neglect court orders. This bill directly affects judges and legal proceedings in cases involving child welfare, mandating that courts explicitly state the factual basis and legal reasoning for their decisions. The key provision amends existing statutes to ensure courts document key determinations - such as whether abuse/neglect occurred and why custody decisions were made - rather than issuing general orders. This change aims to increase transparency and accountability in family court rulings without altering the underlying legal standards or services provided.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 20, 2026 Last action Jan 20, 2026
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Total actions
4
Key actions
0
Committee
2
Jan 20, 2026
Committee
To House Judiciary
lower
Jan 20, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in House
lower
Jan 20, 2026
Committee
To Judiciary
lower
1 primary · 8 co-sponsors

Sponsors