This bill amends West Virginia Code §49-4-111, which outlines the criteria and procedures for the temporary removal of a child from a foster home and the termination of foster care arrangements. A significant change is the reduction of the time period for which a child must be in a foster care arrangement before it can be terminated from eighteen months to six months. The bill stipulates that a foster care arrangement may only be terminated if it is in the best interest of the child and under specific conditions, such as the foster parents agreeing to the termination or a court finding a more suitable long-term placement.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions regarding the notification of foster or adoptive parents when a child is available for placement, particularly if they have siblings in care. It allows the department to terminate a foster care arrangement to unite siblings if it is deemed in their best interests, while also providing options for children aged 12 and older to remain in their current foster care arrangement if desired. The bill emphasizes the importance of the best interests of the child in all decisions regarding foster care placements and terminations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-4-111