This bill amends West Virginia Code §49-4-111, which outlines the criteria and procedures for the temporary removal of a child from a foster home and the termination of foster care arrangements. A significant change is the modification of the time frame for which a child can remain in a foster care arrangement before termination is considered. The bill reduces the maximum duration from eighteen months to six consecutive months, establishing that a foster care arrangement may not be terminated unless it is in the best interest of the child and meets specific criteria, such as the foster parents' written agreement to the termination or a court order for a more suitable long-term placement.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions regarding the notification process for foster parents or adoptive parents of siblings when a child becomes available for placement. It allows the department to notify these parents within ten days of the child's availability and provides the option for the department to waive this notification under compelling circumstances. The bill also emphasizes the importance of sibling placements, stating that the department may terminate a foster care arrangement to unite siblings if it is determined to be in the best interest of the children involved. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the foster care process while prioritizing the welfare of the children and the importance of sibling relationships.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-4-111