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WV HB5400

Bill

Official Source

Status

Introduced

2/10/2026

Primary Sponsor

Ian Masters

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Increases the penalty for child neglect resulting in death from the current range of 3-15 years imprisonment and/or $1,000-$5,000 fine to a mandatory 10-20 years in a state correctional facility
  • Eliminates the option for a fine-only punishment, requiring imprisonment for all convictions
  • Applies to parents, guardians, custodians, or persons in a position of trust who neglect a child and cause the child's death
  • Maintains the existing religious exemption for parents who choose spiritual healing through prayer instead of medical treatment, provided the method has a proven record of success
  • Introduced February 10, 2026, and referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary

Legislative Description

Relating generally to punishment for child neglect resulting in death.

Crime

Last Action

To House Judiciary

2/10/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary2/10/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available