Delegate Elias Coop-Gonzalez (R-Randolph, 67) has introduced House Bill 2811, known as the Adoption Education Act, which seeks to ensure that students and young adults in West Virginia receive comprehensive information about adoption as a viable option in cases of unplanned pregnancy.
The bill would create a new section in the state education code (§18-5-52) and require that public schools and universities under the supervision of the West Virginia State Board of Education or state higher education systems provide education about adoption practices, resources, and support. This information would be included whenever discussions or services relating to contraception or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are presented.
The legislation also emphasizes that while family life and sex education decisions remain under the control of local school boards, any such programs adopted at the local level should include instruction about adoption, the Safe Haven Act, and related resources. The bill asserts that schools play a supplemental role in reinforcing values taught at home and by faith communities, while also providing essential information to students.
HB 2811 tasks the State Superintendent of Schools with ensuring the inclusion of adoption education within the state’s health education curriculum standards. The measure is set to take effect July 1, 2025, and would override any conflicting laws already on the books.
By introducing the Adoption Education Act, Delegate Coop-Gonzalez aims to broaden the conversation about unplanned pregnancy solutions in schools and to promote adoption as a supportive, life-affirming choice. The legislation reflects a growing push among some lawmakers to provide students with more comprehensive and values-driven reproductive education options.
