‘This is abhorrent’: Chaos takes over debate of WV child abuse bill

What this episode covers

West Virginia lawmakers fought until the wee hours of the morning – and the final minutes of this year’s session March 14 over Raylee’s Law. Named for 8-year-old Raylee Browning, the bill would have prevented a parent from pulling a child out of public school to homeschool if social services is investigating abuse or neglect in the home. One of the highest profile bills of the session, the measure boasted bipartisan support. But it faced fierce opposition from homeschool lobbyists, parents and some Republicans, calling it an attack on parental rights. In Episode 22, you’ll hear from West Virginia Watch reporter Amelia Ferrell Knisely. She’s been reporting closely on this issue. You’ll also hear from Republican West Virginia state Senator Amy Grady. She championed Raylee’s Law and worked across the aisle to try to get it passed. She’s also a 4th grade public school teacher and serves as the chair of the West Virginia Senate Education Committee. Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching. Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer.  Click here for the full transcript. Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners:  WV House members criticize running clock out on Raylee’s Law, Speaker Hanshaw offers no explanation (West Virginia Watch) ‘These kids are invisible’: Child abuse deaths spur clash over homeschool regulation (Stateline) CT bill draws homeschool families to Capitol in emotional hearing (CT Mirror) Homeschool bill stalls in Illinois House, but sponsor says it’s still alive (Capital News Illinois) Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at [email protected] Photo: Del. Shawn Fluharty, D-Ohio, held up a poster of Raylee Browning, a child who died from abuse and neglect after her parents removed her from public school to homeschool her. Raylee’s Law would prevent parents from removing their child from school to homeschool them if a teacher has reported them for abuse. (Perry Bennett | West Virginia Legislative Photography)