This bill proposes significant changes to the spousal support laws in West Virginia by abolishing spousal support entirely. The current provisions that outline the obligations for spousal support, including those arising from court orders or agreements, are deleted. Specifically, the bill removes the definitions and classifications of spousal support, such as permanent, temporary, rehabilitative, and spousal support in gross. Additionally, it eliminates the requirement that parties must be living separately for spousal support to be awarded.

The bill introduces new language stating that spousal support is abolished in the state, rendering any existing orders or agreements that include spousal support provisions void and unenforceable in any court. Furthermore, several sections of the current law related to the jurisdiction, payment, and effects of fault or misconduct on spousal support are repealed, indicating a complete overhaul of the spousal support framework in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 48-8-101, 48-8-102, 48-8-103, 48-8-104, 48-8-105, 48-8-106