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 the department responsible for child welfare inform these children of their rights in an age-appropriate manner. Additionally, the bill requires that a written copy of the Foster Child Bill of Rights be provided to each child in their primary language, if possible, and that the information be communicated in simple terms. For children with disabilities, the communication must be tailored to ensure successful understanding.

Furthermore, the bill allows children to sign a document acknowledging their understanding of the Foster Child Bill of Rights after receiving the written copy and the oral explanation. It also stipulates that agencies, foster homes, or residential childcare facilities must provide a copy of the rights upon request. The rights outlined in this section do not create an independent cause of action, but violations can be reported to the foster care ombudsman, who is required to submit annual summaries of reports and investigations to relevant authorities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-126