The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 49-2-802b, which mandates the development and implementation of a statewide prevention plan by the Department of Human Services (DoHS) by January 1, 2027. This plan aims to provide trauma-informed, evidence-based prevention services to children under 18 and their families, including kinship and foster parents. The services will target at-risk children, pregnant and parenting youth, youth aging out of foster care, and those transitioning between care levels. The DoHS is also required to ensure that the prevention network of providers offers convenient access to services, combining both telehealth and physical locations.

Additionally, the bill requires the DoHS to track and report on the outcomes of these prevention services starting December 1, 2027, and annually thereafter. The report will include data on the number of families served, costs associated with prevention services, and program outcomes, all presented on a de-identified basis to maintain confidentiality. The bill emphasizes maximizing federal funding opportunities under the Family First Prevention Services Act to support these initiatives.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-802b
Committee Substitute: 49-2-802b
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 49-2-802b