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Bill

HB 1727

Establishment of parent and child relationship; persons who committed sexual assault.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Karrie Delaney and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia prohibits establishing parent-child relationships for people convicted of sexually assaulting the child's other parent, effective July 1, 2025.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0547)
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Bill Summary · HB 1727

Legislative bill overview

HB 1727 modifies Virginia law to prohibit establishing a legal parent-child relationship through marriage or acknowledgment for individuals convicted of sexual assault against the child's other parent. The bill became effective July 1, 2025, and applies to cases where such convictions exist.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses a legal gap where sexual assault perpetrators could potentially claim parental rights or responsibilities over children born to their victims. By closing this loophole, the law aims to protect vulnerable children and prevent abusers from gaining legal leverage over victims through parental claims.

Potential points of contention

  • Due process concerns: Opponents may argue that denying parental establishment based solely on conviction could raise constitutional questions about rights and the finality of legal determinations
  • Practical application complexity: The bill's interaction with existing custody, visitation, and child support laws may create administrative and judicial interpretation challenges
  • Retroactive application scope: Questions about whether the law applies to relationships established before the effective date and how enforcement handles existing cases

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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