This bill amends West Virginia's Code by revising section 49-4-712 and adding a new section, 49-4-712a, to mandate the participation of parents, guardians, or custodians in programs for juveniles placed outside of their homes. The legislation stipulates that such participation is required unless a court determines that it is not in the best interest of the juvenile. The bill emphasizes the importance of family involvement in treatment programs, including family therapy sessions, to support the juvenile's rehabilitation and well-being.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for enforcing compliance with these requirements through valid court orders. It allows the court to mandate participation in programs for juveniles in out-of-home placements and outlines the circumstances under which a juvenile may be placed in a residential facility. 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 the role of families in the treatment process for juveniles in out-of-home placements.

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