This bill aims to amend the Foster Child Bill of Rights in West Virginia by ensuring that children in foster care or kinship placements are made aware of their rights. It mandates that each child must be informed of their rights in an age-appropriate manner, and the department is required to provide a written copy of the Foster Child Bill of Rights in the child's primary language, if possible. Additionally, the bill stipulates that children may sign a document acknowledging their understanding of these rights, which will be placed in their case file.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes that agencies, foster homes, or residential childcare facilities must provide a copy of the Foster Child Bill of Rights upon the child's request. It clarifies that while these rights do not create an independent cause of action, violations can be reported to the foster care ombudsman for investigation. The ombudsman is also required to submit an annual summary of reports and investigations related to these rights, ensuring transparency and accountability in the foster care system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-126