This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the involvement of parents, guardians, or custodians in programs for juveniles placed outside of their homes. It establishes that these individuals must participate in such programs, including family therapy sessions, unless a court determines that their involvement is not in the best interest of the juvenile. The bill also mandates that services provided for juveniles adjudicated as status offenders must include programs requiring parental participation, reinforcing the importance of family involvement in the rehabilitation process.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing legal language regarding the enforcement of compliance with service plans. It allows the department to petition the circuit court for a valid court order to ensure that parents, guardians, or custodians comply with participation requirements in programs for juveniles in out-of-home placements. The bill also clarifies that juveniles adjudicated solely as status offenders or found incompetent to proceed cannot be placed in a Division of Juvenile Services facility after January 1, 2016. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen family engagement in juvenile rehabilitation efforts while ensuring that the best interests of the juvenile are prioritized.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-4-712, 49-4-712a