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SB 27

Reducing statute of limitations on actions to recover on oral and written contracts

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jason Barrett and 1 co-sponsor

SB 27 shortens the timeframe for filing lawsuits to enforce oral and written contracts in West Virginia, reducing creditors' time to recover unpaid debts.

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#actions #suitsandliens
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Bill Summary · SB 27

Legislative bill overview

SB 27 would shorten the statute of limitations period for legal actions to recover on oral and written contracts in West Virginia. The bill would allow creditors and contract parties less time to pursue lawsuits to enforce unpaid contractual obligations. This represents a substantive change to West Virginia's contract law and litigation timelines.

Why is this important

Statutes of limitations directly affect creditors' ability to collect debts and enforce agreements, while protecting defendants from indefinite legal exposure. Shortening these periods makes it harder for businesses and individuals to recover money owed under contracts, potentially affecting small business financing, loan collection, and commercial transactions. The change could have significant ripple effects across West Virginia's economy and legal system.

Potential points of contention

  • Creditor impact: Shortening the timeframe disadvantages businesses and lenders who need adequate time to pursue legitimate contract claims, potentially making lending riskier and more expensive
  • Current law baseline: Without bill text, unclear what the current statute of limitations is and how much reduction is proposed—a minor change differs substantially from aggressive shortening
  • Small business vs. consumer protection: The change may disproportionately harm small creditors while potentially benefiting consumers facing collection actions, or vice versa depending on implementation details

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

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