Bill > HB1852

This bill clarifies the definition of "family or household member" in Virginia law by modifying the existing legal language to explicitly state that an individual does not need to be currently or previously in a romantic, dating, or sexual relationship with another person to be considered a family or household member. Specifically, the bill expands the definition to include any individual who cohabits or has cohabited with another person within the previous 12 months, along with any children of either person residing in the same home, regardless of the nature of their prior or current relationship. This change is significant because it broadens the scope of who can be considered a family or household member for legal purposes, potentially affecting how domestic violence, protective orders, and other family-related legal matters are handled. The modification aims to provide a more inclusive definition that recognizes various living arrangements and family structures, ensuring that individuals who have shared a home have legal protections and recourse, even if they were not romantically involved.

Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB1852