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Bill

HB 4515

To remedy an issue relating to the disaffiliation from religious denominations whilst retaining church property

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bill Bell and 10 co-sponsors

West Virginia bill clarifies legal rights and procedures for churches leaving denominations while retaining local property ownership.

To House Judiciary
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4515

Legislative bill overview

HB 4515 addresses the legal framework governing when churches can leave their denominations while keeping their property. The bill appears designed to clarify or modify existing West Virginia law on denominational disaffiliation disputes, which have become increasingly common as congregations split over theological or social issues. The specific remedy proposed is not detailed in the available information, but such bills typically establish clearer property rights for either departing congregations or the denominations they leave.

Why is this important

Disaffiliation disputes have created significant legal uncertainty and financial consequences across the country, with some cases resulting in million-dollar litigation. West Virginia churches seeking to leave denominations—particularly from mainline Protestant churches experiencing internal divisions—currently operate under ambiguous legal standards. Clarifying this issue affects both religious liberty and property rights for congregations, denominations, and their members.

Potential points of contention

  • Religious autonomy vs. property doctrine: Whether congregations have the right to take property when leaving, or whether denominational hierarchies retain control based on historic property ownership structures
  • Denominational concerns: National church bodies may oppose rules favoring local congregations, fearing mass disaffiliations over doctrinal disputes
  • Defining "disaffiliation": What constitutes a legitimate departure versus a schism, and who decides when a congregation has formally separated

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

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