West Virginia § 5-32-3 - 5-32-3. Definitions of terms used in the code and Code of State Rules.

Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 5-32-3 — 5-32-3. Definitions of terms used in the code and Code of State Rules., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 5-32-3. 5-32-3. Definitions of terms used in the code and Code of State Rules.

As used in this code and/or any administrative rules, regulations, or public policies adopted by the state or its instrumentalities:

(1) A "woman" is an adult human of the female sex, and a "man" is an adult human of the male sex.

(2) A "girl" is a human female who is a legal minor, and a "boy" is a human male who is a legal minor: Provided , That the use of the term "girl" or "boy" in reference to the participation of a high school-aged individual in a school or extracurricular program in accordance with the laws of the state shall not be understood to exclude the participation of a student who is legally an adult.

(3) A "mother" is a female parent of a child or children.

(4) A "father" is a male parent of a child or children.

(5) A "female", when this term is used in reference to a natural person, is an individual who naturally has, had, will have through the course of normal development, or would have but for a developmental anomaly, genetic anomaly, or accident, the reproductive system that at some point produces, transports, and utilizes ova for fertilization.

(6) A "male", when this term is used in reference to a natural person, is an individual who naturally has, had, will have through the course of normal development, or would have but for a developmental anomaly, genetic anomaly, or accident, the reproductive system that at some point produces, transports, and utilizes sperm for fertilization.

(7) "Sex", when this term is used to classify or describe a natural person, means the state of being either male or female as observed or clinically verified at birth. There are only two sexes, and every individual is either male or female: Provided , That individuals with congenital and medically verifiable "DSD conditions" (sometimes referred to as "differences in sex development", "disorders in sex development", or "intersex conditions") are not members of a third sex and must be accommodated consistent with state and federal law.

(8) "Domestic violence shelter" means a residential service offered by a licensed domestic violence program on a temporary basis, to persons who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking or human trafficking, and their children, as established by §48-26-214 of this code, and that receives funding from the West Virginia Department of Human Services.

(9) "Public school" means any school under the general supervision of the West Virginia Board of Education pursuant to Article XII, Section 2 of the Constitution of West Virginia.

(10) "State institution of higher education" means any university, college, or community and technical college under the jurisdiction of a governing board as defined in §18B-1-2 of this code.

(11) "Multiple occupancy restroom or changing room" means an area designed or designated to be used by more than one individual at the same time and in which one or more individuals may be in various stages of undress in the presence of other individuals. Such term includes, but shall not be limited to, the following:

(A) Restrooms;

(B) Locker rooms; and

(C) Shower rooms.

(12) "Changing area" means an area designed or designated to be used by one or more individuals at the same time and in which one or more individuals may be in various stages of undress. Such term includes, but shall not be limited to, restrooms.

(13) "Sleeping quarters" means a room with more than one bed and in which more than one individual is housed overnight.

Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 5-32-3

What does West Virginia Code § 5-32-3 cover?

Section 5-32-3 ("5-32-3. Definitions of terms used in the code and Code of State Rules.") is part of the West Virginia Code, the codified statutory law of West Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite West Virginia § 5-32-3?

A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 5-32-3" (West Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of West Virginia law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the West Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed West Virginia attorney.

How does West Virginia § 5-32-3 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in West Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in West Virginia.