This bill proposes the addition of a new article to the Code of West Virginia, specifically addressing property rights when local charities disaffiliate from their national or regional conferences, denominations, or chapters. It establishes that a church can disaffiliate while retaining ownership of its property, provided it reimburses the conference or denomination for financial investments made in the property. The bill mandates that the conference or denomination must provide a detailed accounting of these contributions to determine the reimbursement amount.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that disaffiliating local churches are not required to reimburse for any financial investments made by the local church itself regarding the acquisition, maintenance, or renovation of the property. This legislation aims to clarify the rights and responsibilities of local charities in relation to property ownership during disaffiliation processes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 31E-17-1