HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 33

(By Delegate Campbell, By Request)




Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance to conduct a study of grandparent visitation rights to determine if more effective mechanisms can be developed to better protect grandparents' right of access to their grandchildren in cases of divorce or legal separation.

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HEREAS , Grandparents often develop strong bonds with their grandchildren, only to have that relationship severed when the children's parents divorce or legally separate; and
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HEREAS , Often it is not only in the best interest of grandparents to continue that relationship, but more importantly, it is in the best interest of the children to continue the grandparent relationship; and
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HEREAS , In this age of declining traditional family units and growing single family households, it is more important than ever to provide our children with access to the loving support and wisdom of their grandparents; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to conduct a study of grandparents visitation rights to determine if more effective mechanisms can be developed to better protect grandparents' right of access to their grandchildren in cases of divorce or legal separation; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2005, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.