This bill aims to establish a regulatory framework for private alternative adolescent residential or outdoor programs in West Virginia by adding a new article to the Code of West Virginia. It defines key terms related to these programs, such as "critical incident," "license," and "program participant," and mandates that no program may operate without obtaining an annual license from the Director of the Office of Health Facilities Licensure and Certification. The bill outlines the licensure requirements, including background checks for individuals with direct access to program participants, and sets forth rules for reporting critical incidents, ensuring the health and safety of participants, and maintaining communication with parents or guardians.

Additionally, the bill provides for the suspension and revocation of licenses for non-compliance with the established rules, including penalties for operating without a license or violating provisions of the article. It allows for civil monetary penalties and injunctive relief to protect the health and safety of program participants. The Inspector General is tasked with enforcing these regulations and proposing necessary rules for legislative approval to ensure adequate care and accommodations for the youth served by these programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16B-22-1, 16B-22-2, 16B-22-3, 16B-22-4, 16B-22-5, 16B-22-6
Committee Substitute: 16B-22-1, 16B-22-2, 16B-22-3, 16B-22-4, 16B-22-5, 16B-22-6