This bill amends West Virginia Code §49-4-609 to establish mandatory criminal charges against parents when their children are removed from their custody due to abuse and neglect. The new provisions specify that if a person is convicted of an offense against a child and has parental rights to that child or any child in the same household, the court must classify them as an "abusing parent" at sentencing. Additionally, if a child's custody is changed due to the termination of parental rights under §49-4-604, the court is required to initiate criminal charges based on the circumstances of the case.

The bill outlines that these charges will align with existing statutes regarding child abuse and neglect, specifically referencing penalties and fines in accordance with West Virginia Code §61-8D-3, §61-8D-4, and §61-8D-5. This legislative change aims to enhance accountability for parents whose actions lead to the removal of their children from their care, thereby reinforcing the state's commitment to child welfare and protection.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-4-609