The bill amends various sections of the Code of West Virginia to enhance child welfare services, particularly in the context of child abuse and neglect. It introduces new terms such as "family assessment response" and "investigative assessment response," which delineate different methods for addressing reports of child abuse and neglect. The Bureau for Social Services is tasked with implementing a differential response system that includes both investigative and family assessment tracks, ensuring that reports are screened based on severity and risk factors. Additionally, the bill clarifies the Bureau's responsibilities in providing protective services and mandates the use of appropriate screening tools for evaluating reports received through centralized intake.

Moreover, the bill emphasizes data retention and reporting requirements, mandating that reports to centralized intake be kept for at least 12 months in the Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System. It requires the Bureau to maintain a statistical index of both substantiated and unsubstantiated allegations while ensuring confidentiality. The Department of Human Services is also required to provide statistical data to the State Police for child abuse investigations and to update the existing child welfare data dashboard by July 1, 2026. This dashboard will include performance indicators, information on child fatalities and near fatalities, and workforce data related to child protective services, with updates presented in a searchable format to enhance transparency and accountability in child welfare management.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-1-201, 49-2-101, 49-2-809, 49-2-813, 49-11-101