SB 707 West Virginia Senate · 2026 Regular Session

Relating to crimes involving abuse or desecration of human remains

This bill creates new criminal offenses for intentionally abusing or desecrating human remains, including mutilation, dismemberment, or unauthorized disposal of a deceased body or cremated remains. It establishes a base felony offense (1-5 years in prison or up to $5,000 fine) and an aggravated offense (2-10 years or $2,000-$10,000 fine) when the act involves concealment, obstruction, commercial exploitation, or connection to other felonies. The law applies to both bodies and cremated remains but exempts lawful activities by medical professionals, funeral directors, law enforcement, and researchers acting within legal authority. Prosecutions may occur in the county where the conduct happened or where the remains were discovered.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 2, 2026 Last action Feb 2, 2026
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Full legislative history

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Total actions
3
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0
Committee
1
Feb 2, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in Senate
upper
Feb 2, 2026
Committee
To Judiciary
upper
1 primary · 4 co-sponsors

Sponsors