The proposed bill introduces "The Deployed Servicemembers Protection Act" to the Code of West Virginia, aiming to enhance protections for military servicemembers during their deployment. The legislation outlines several findings that emphasize the importance of safeguarding the homes, loved ones, and property of servicemembers to maintain their morale and effectiveness. It establishes definitions for key terms such as "servicemember," "military service," and "dependent," aligning them with the existing Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA).

The bill specifies protections for deployed servicemembers, particularly regarding financial transactions and custody of children. Spouses of servicemembers are prohibited from selling significant assets, closing joint financial accounts, or removing children from their home without the servicemember's written consent during the deployment and for two months afterward. Violations of these provisions are classified as misdemeanors, carrying penalties of up to 30 days in jail or fines up to $5,000, along with potential civil liability.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-1H-7