This bill establishes 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 legislation highlights the necessity for high-quality legal assistance for vulnerable children who lack adequate counsel and defines key terms related to the program, such as "eligible client" and "eligible proceeding." The pilot program is scheduled to begin on October 1, 2025, and will conclude on June 30, 2028, unless extended by the Legislature.

Furthermore, the bill creates a Guardian ad Litem Commission to aid in the development of policies and procedures for the Public Guardian ad Litem Services and outlines the agency's powers, including the appointment of an executive director. It allows for the establishment of public guardian ad litem corporations in selected judicial circuits, as determined by the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals, to enhance the delivery of legal services. The governance structure for these corporations is detailed, including the formation of a board of directors and requirements for funding applications, audits, and reporting. The legislation aims to improve legal representation for children 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