The bill proposes the establishment of the West Virginia Child First Advisory Committee and the West Virginia Child First Fund, aimed at improving child welfare outcomes in the state. The Advisory Committee will be administered by the Department of Human Services and will consist of various members, including the Cabinet Secretary for the Department of Human Services, the Foster Care Ombudsman, and appointed individuals with expertise in child welfare. The Committee is tasked with evaluating child welfare outcomes, assessing the administration of child abuse and neglect laws, and identifying areas of concern within the child welfare system. It is required to meet at least quarterly and provide annual findings and recommendations to the Governor and the Joint Committee on the Judiciary.

Additionally, the bill establishes the West Virginia Child First Fund, which will be managed by the Department of Human Services. This fund will be used exclusively for improving child welfare outcomes and will consist of appropriated state funds, federal funds, and private donations. The bill ensures that any unspent funds at the end of the fiscal year will not revert to the General Revenue Fund but will remain in the Child First Fund for its intended purpose. The Department of Human Services is also authorized to create rules for the administration of the fund, ensuring that resources are effectively utilized to enhance the child welfare system in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Originating in Committee: 9-5-34
Engrossed Version: 9-5-34