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 an award of spousal support can only be ordered if the parties are living separately.

The bill inserts new language stating that spousal support is abolished in the state, rendering any prior orders or agreements that include spousal support provisions void and unenforceable in court. Furthermore, it repeals several sections of the existing law that pertain to the jurisdiction, payment, and effects of fault or misconduct on spousal support awards, effectively removing any legal framework for spousal support 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