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HB 2219

Relating to abolishing spousal support

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brandon Steele

House Bill 2219 abolishes spousal support in West Virginia, removing financial obligations after divorce, impacting couples, legal practices, and court workloads.

To House Judiciary
#domesticrelations
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2219

Summary of House Bill 2219

Bill Number: HB 2219
Title: Relating to Abolishing Spousal Support
Status: To House Judiciary
Introduced: January 29, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Domestic Relations

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2219 aims to abolish spousal support in the State of West Virginia. The bill seeks to eliminate any legal obligations for one spouse to provide financial support to another following a separation or divorce. This legislative change is intended to simplify the legal landscape surrounding domestic relations and potentially reduce the burden on the court system regarding spousal support cases.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following significant changes:

  • Abolition of Spousal Support: The bill repeals existing statutes related to spousal support, including:

    • Section 48-8-102: Jurisdiction to award spousal support
    • Section 48-8-103: Payment of spousal support
    • Section 48-8-104: Effect of fault or misconduct on the award of spousal support
    • Section 48-8-105: Rehabilitative spousal support
    • Section 48-8-106: Payments out of disposable retired or retainer pay

  • Void Agreements: Any prior court orders, antenuptial agreements, or separation agreements that include provisions for spousal support will be rendered void and unenforceable in any court within the state.

Impact

The abolition of spousal support would affect:

  • Divorcing Couples: Individuals going through divorce proceedings would no longer have the option to seek spousal support, which may impact financial negotiations and settlements.
  • Legal Practitioners: Family law attorneys may need to adjust their practices and advice to clients regarding financial arrangements post-divorce.
  • Court System: The elimination of spousal support claims could reduce the number of cases handled by family courts, potentially streamlining court processes.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 29, 2025: Bill filed with the Clerk by Rep. Tony M. McCombie.
  • February 4, 2025: First reading and referred to the Rules Committee.
  • February 12, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the Judiciary Committee.
  • March 4, 2025: Assigned to the Executive Committee.
  • March 12, 2025: Passed in the Executive Committee with a vote of 012-000-000.
  • March 27, 2025: Held on the Calendar Order of Second Reading - Short Debate.
  • April 11, 2025: Third Reading Deadline Extended to May 31, 2025.
  • May 31, 2025: Re-referred to the Rules Committee.

Conclusion

House Bill 2219 represents a significant shift in the legal framework surrounding spousal support in West Virginia. By abolishing this form of financial obligation, the bill aims to simplify divorce proceedings and reduce the complexity of domestic relations law. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for individuals and the legal system will continue to be a topic of discussion.

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

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