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SB 2

Uniform Child Abduction Prevention Act

2026 Regular Session

West Virginia adopts uniform child abduction prevention law enabling courts to restrict travel, passports, and custody changes to stop parental child abductions and improve interstate enforcement.

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Bill Summary · SB 2

Legislative bill overview

SB 2 would adopt the Uniform Child Abduction Prevention Act (UCAPA), a model law developed by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws. The bill establishes procedures for courts to issue protective orders preventing child abductions, including restrictions on passport issuance, travel, and custody modifications. It creates mechanisms for law enforcement coordination and sets standards for recognizing similar orders from other states.

Why is this important

Child abduction by a parent or family member affects thousands of families annually and can result in serious harm to children, including psychological trauma and international complications. Uniform state adoption of this law would improve interstate cooperation, reduce jurisdictional conflicts, and provide consistent legal tools for courts to protect at-risk children. West Virginia's adoption would align the state with others implementing UCAPA, strengthening enforcement capabilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Custody dispute concerns: Critics may worry the law could be misused to restrict travel rights of parents in contested custody situations, potentially weaponizing abduction prevention orders during divorce proceedings.
  • Due process standards: Questions may arise about what evidence and procedures courts must follow before restricting a parent's rights, particularly regarding passport denial without full hearings.
  • Implementation costs: Law enforcement and judicial system resource requirements for tracking orders, monitoring compliance, and interstate coordination could burden state budgets.

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

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