This bill amends West Virginia Code §49-4-609 to establish a requirement for the court to initiate criminal charges against parents when their children are removed from their custody due to abuse and neglect. Specifically, it introduces new provisions that mandate the court to classify a convicted individual as an "abusing parent" if they have been found guilty of offenses against a child and have custodial or visitation rights to that child or any child in the same household.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a child's custody is changed due to the termination of parental rights under §49-4-604, the court must instigate criminal charges based on the circumstances surrounding the case. The charges will align with existing laws regarding child abuse and neglect, ensuring that appropriate penalties and fines are applied. This legislative change aims to enhance accountability for parents whose actions lead to the removal of their children from their care.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-4-609