This bill aims to establish a "Parents Bill of Rights" in West Virginia by adding a new article to the state code. The article outlines fundamental rights of parents, including their liberty to direct the upbringing, education, and medical care of their children. It emphasizes that parental rights to choose educational options—such as private, religious, or home schooling—are protected and cannot be infringed upon by the state or any governmental entity without demonstrating a compelling interest. Additionally, parents are granted the right to sue for violations of these rights and seek various forms of relief.

The bill also clarifies its applicability to all state and local laws, rules, or ordinances, regardless of when they were enacted. It includes provisions that ensure the article does not protect actions that involve child abuse or neglect, nor does it grant parents rights to access restricted healthcare treatments for their children. The language of the bill is designed to reinforce parental authority while maintaining certain legal boundaries regarding child welfare and health care.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-11-1, 49-11-2, 49-11-3