The bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia to enhance child welfare services by establishing a comprehensive approach to the residential placement of at-risk youth. It recognizes the fragmented nature of the current system and emphasizes the need for collaboration among various child-serving agencies. The legislation creates a commission within the Department of Human Services to study and improve the residential placement system, focusing on reducing out-of-state placements and increasing the availability of in-state facilities. The commission will report annually on its findings and recommendations, including strategies to reduce out-of-state placements by at least ten percent per year.

Additionally, the bill establishes the "Bring Them Home Fund," which will be administered by the Secretary of the Department of Human Services. This fund will support the renovation of state properties and the development of treatment programs to provide necessary services for children within West Virginia. The Secretary is authorized to disburse funds for various purposes, including expanding the child welfare provider network and operating in-state facilities. The provisions of this section are set to expire on July 1, 2030, ensuring a focused timeframe for implementation and evaluation of the proposed reforms.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-13-101, 49-13-102, 49-13-103, 49-13-104
Committee Substitute: 49-2-125