The bill seeks to enhance child welfare in West Virginia by amending existing laws related to the reporting and management of child abuse and neglect cases. It introduces a requirement for immediate reporting of such cases to the Bureau for Social Services through a 24-hour hotline or web-based system, which will provide a case identifier to the reporter. Reports made through other means must also be acted upon by the Bureau. Additionally, the bill mandates the retention of reports and audio files concerning child abuse for a minimum of 12 months, thereby increasing accountability and transparency in the reporting process.

Moreover, the bill establishes a Critical Incident Review Team under the Office of the Inspector General, responsible for reviewing child fatalities and near fatalities within the child welfare system. This team will analyze trends and risk factors, maintain confidentiality, and submit reports to the Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources Accountability. The team will consist of members from various sectors, including social services and law enforcement, and will meet quarterly, with additional meetings required following incidents. The bill also updates the child welfare data dashboard to include performance indicators and demographic information related to child fatalities, enhancing the state's ability to monitor and improve child welfare services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-809, 49-5-101, 49-11-101, 61-12B-1, 61-12B-2, 61-12B-3, 61-12B-4, 61-12B-5, 61-12B-6, 61-12B-7
Committee Substitute: 49-2-809, 49-5-101, 49-11-101, 61-12B-1, 61-12B-2, 61-12B-3, 61-12B-4, 61-12B-5, 61-12B-6, 61-12B-7
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 49-2-809, 49-5-101, 49-11-101, 61-12B-1, 61-12B-2, 61-12B-3, 61-12B-4, 61-12B-5, 61-12B-6, 61-12B-7