This bill proposes the establishment of the West Virginia Public Guardian ad Litem Services through a new article in the Code of West Virginia, introducing a three-year pilot program designed to provide legal representation for children involved in juvenile abuse and neglect proceedings. The program will be implemented in three selected judicial circuits—one rural, one urban, and one special needs county—beginning on October 1, 2025, and concluding on June 30, 2028, unless extended by the Legislature. The legislation also establishes an executive agency to administer and evaluate these services, along with a Guardian ad Litem Commission to provide policy and procedural guidance.

Furthermore, the bill defines key terms related to the program and outlines the roles and responsibilities of the executive director and public guardian ad litem corporations. It includes provisions for the appointment of the executive director by the Governor, the creation of an accounting and auditing division, and mandates for public guardian ad litem corporations to submit financial statements and reports. The governance structure for these corporations is also detailed, including the formation of a board of directors and requirements for annual funding applications and budget submissions. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the quality of legal representation for vulnerable children in West Virginia's juvenile justice system while ensuring accountability and effective resource management.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 29-21A-101, 29-21A-102, 29-21A-103, 29-21A-104, 29-21A-105, 29-21A-106, 29-21A-107, 29-21A-108, 29-21A-109, 29-21A-110, 29-21A-111, 29-21A-112, 29-21A-113, 29-21A-114, 29-21A-115, 29-21A-116, 29-21A-117
Committee Substitute: 29-21A-101, 29-21A-102, 29-21A-103, 29-21A-104, 29-21A-105, 29-21A-106, 29-21A-107, 29-21A-108, 29-21A-109, 29-21A-110, 29-21A-111, 29-21A-112, 29-21A-113, 29-21A-114, 29-21A-115, 29-21A-116