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

HB 5673 creates a legal right for certain adults to petition West Virginia circuit or family courts for visitation with their minor siblings. It specifically allows blood, half, step, or adoptive siblings who are at least 18 years old to request visitation with minor children (under 18) when no other custody case is pending, or to file a motion during ongoing divorce, custody, or paternity proceedings. The bill requires courts to prioritize the "best interests of the child" when reviewing such requests and outlines where petitions must be filed based on whether other family court actions are active. This law directly affects siblings aged 18+ seeking to maintain relationships with younger siblings and the courts handling these petitions.