This bill amends West Virginia Code §49-2-102, which pertains to the allocation and stationing of child protective services workers by county. Effective July 1, 2024, the commissioner will allocate and station these workers based on factors such as population, referrals, and average caseload. Importantly, the commissioner is granted the authority to adjust allocations based on the immediate needs of each county, as indicated by current referrals and caseloads. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the allocation of child protective services workers cannot fall below the levels established on January 1, 2023, provided that all positions are filled. If there are vacancies, adjustments can be made according to actual needs.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that county population figures will be derived from the United States Census. It mandates that the bureau report the allocation of child protective services workers to the Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources Accountability by July 1 of each year. This annual report must detail any changes in allocation that occurred in the preceding twelve months and lasted for more than three weeks, along with justifications for each change. The purpose of these amendments is to clarify the allocation formula and enhance transparency in reporting.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-102