The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the Child Abuse and Neglect Investigations Unit within the State Police by increasing its membership from six to 19, which includes both current and former members of the State Police. The bill also introduces provisions for retired State Police officers to be reemployed in the unit, establishing specific requirements for their reemployment. These requirements include the completion of a prescribed training course, passing mental and physical examinations, and stipulations regarding their rank, compensation, and eligibility for pension benefits.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that reemployed retired officers will not accrue pension rights, will not be eligible for promotions, and will serve at the discretion of the superintendent. The unit is tasked with coordinating with Child Protective Services and other law enforcement agencies to investigate child abuse and neglect cases, while maintaining a statistical index of such cases. The annual report submitted by the unit director will include this statistical data and may suggest reforms to improve the unit's effectiveness.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-2-15
Committee Substitute: 15-2-15
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 15-2-15