This bill amends sections 49-4-605 and 49-4-610 of the Code of West Virginia to impose limitations on the number of improvement periods a parent can receive in abuse and neglect proceedings for each child. Specifically, it introduces new provisions that restrict a respondent to a maximum of three improvement periods across all filings related to the same child. Additionally, it establishes stricter limits for parents with prior terminations of parental rights, allowing only two improvement periods for those with one prior termination and only one improvement period for those with two or more prior terminations or relinquishments of parental rights.

The bill also includes several insertions that clarify the conditions under which the Department of Health and Human Resources must file for termination of parental rights, such as if a parent fails to successfully complete their final improvement period. Furthermore, it maintains existing provisions regarding the responsibilities of respondents and the department during improvement periods, while emphasizing the importance of the child's best interests in determining the duration and conditions of these periods. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the process and ensure timely resolutions in cases of child abuse and neglect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-4-605, 49-4-610