This bill amends West Virginia Code §49-2-802 to mandate audio and video recordings during Child Protective Services (CPS) investigations and interactions with individuals under investigation for child abuse or neglect. Specifically, it requires that all investigatory interactions between CPS representatives and the public be recorded using body cameras, with informed consent or a court order required for recordings made in private settings. Additionally, the bill stipulates that all communications related to the investigation must be documented, allowing parties under investigation to record their communications, which will hold the same evidentiary weight as those made by CPS.

The bill also introduces several procedural changes, including the requirement for a face-to-face interview with the child within 14 days of a report and the development of a protection plan if necessary. It emphasizes the importance of timely responses to allegations of imminent danger and mandates that local CPS offices coordinate with military advocacy programs when a parent involved in an investigation is in the military. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in CPS investigations while ensuring the protection of children's welfare.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-802