The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the reporting and management of child abuse and neglect cases. It introduces immediate reporting procedures requiring that all reports be made to the Bureau for Social Services via a 24-hour hotline or web-based system. Reports must be retained in the Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System for a minimum of 12 months, and the Bureau is mandated to act on all reports, ensuring that no case is overlooked. Additionally, the bill strengthens confidentiality provisions for child welfare records while allowing access to certain entities, such as the Foster Care Ombudsman, for information related to child abuse or neglect proceedings.

Moreover, the legislation 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, conduct epidemiological analyses, and submit reports to improve child welfare practices. The team is composed of members from various sectors, including social services and law enforcement, and is required to meet quarterly or within 10 days of an incident. It will maintain confidentiality while having access to necessary records from government agencies, and it is exempt from discovery in civil or criminal cases.

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