The bill amends West Virginia's Code §49-2-802 to enhance the procedures and responsibilities of Child Protective Services (CPS) workers during investigations of child abuse or neglect. It mandates that CPS workers attempt to wear body-worn cameras while conducting these investigations, with the stipulation that they must obtain consent from the individual being investigated before using the camera. Additionally, the bill allows workers to refrain from using the cameras if they believe it could compromise the child's privacy or hinder the investigation, and such decisions must be documented in the case file. The audio and video recordings from these cameras are classified as confidential records and must be maintained for the duration of the case.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining the confidentiality of the recordings and integrates the use of body-worn cameras into the existing framework of CPS operations. It also retains the existing provisions regarding the responsibilities of local CPS offices, including the investigation of reports of child abuse or neglect and the coordination of necessary services to ensure child safety. The changes aim to improve transparency and accountability in CPS investigations while safeguarding the rights and privacy of the children involved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-802
Committee Substitute: 49-2-802