Bill > HB2613

This bill addresses how legal substance possession and consumption by parents or guardians should be considered in child abuse, custody, and visitation determinations. Specifically, the bill clarifies that possessing or consuming substances legally authorized under Virginia law (such as alcohol or cannabis) shall not automatically be grounds for deeming a child abused or neglected, nor shall it be a basis for restricting custody or visitation rights. The bill requires that such legal substance use can only be considered a factor in child welfare decisions if additional evidence demonstrates that the substance use creates a risk of physical or mental injury to the child. Additionally, the bill directs the Board of Social Services to update its regulations, guidance documents, and instructional materials to align with these provisions and ensure that local social services departments conduct investigations and family assessments accordingly. The goal is to prevent parents from being penalized solely for legal substance use and to focus child welfare assessments on actual risks to the child's well-being.

Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2613