Maddy summaryHB 2372, titled "Creating the Parents' Bill of Rights," would establish that parents and legal guardians in West Virginia have final authority over decisions about their minor children's health, medical care, education, and welfare. Key provisions include the right to choose medical treatments (including vaccines and mental health services), select educational options (such as home schooling or private schools), and serve as their child's sole advocate in court without needing an attorney. The bill prohibits government entities from questioning or altering parental decisions unless a court finds clear evidence of imminent harm to the child. It also allows parents to sue the government for violations and restricts public institutions from exposing minors to certain materials or nudity in public settings like schools.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryHB 2088 prohibits individuals listed on West Virginia’s state sex offender database from attending any public school activities, events, or athletic functions, regardless of whether they have children enrolled. This applies to all such individuals, including parents or guardians, and directly affects those on the registry who would otherwise participate in school-related settings. The bill imposes penalties: a first violation is a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail, while subsequent violations are felonies carrying 1-5 years in prison. It also requires parent-teacher conferences involving registered sex offenders to occur off school grounds, such as at a courthouse or police station. The law creates a clear policy change banning these individuals from school premises during school activities.
Maddy summaryHB 2125 expands safe surrender options by permitting 24/7 staffed 911 centers and ambulance stations to install newborn safety devices. These devices must include dual alarms tested weekly, visually checked daily, and alert staff within 30 seconds of a baby’s placement, triggering a 911 call if unattended for 15 minutes. Parents can anonymously leave infants under 30 days old without legal repercussions or abuse charges, while emergency responders gain liability protection for good-faith actions. The bill directly affects parents seeking anonymous surrender, emergency medical staff, and facilities operating these devices.