This bill proposes to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 49-4-611, which establishes a time limitation for disposition decisions in child abuse and neglect proceedings. Specifically, it mandates that the court must render a disposition decision no later than 12 months after the ratification of the initial petition, as outlined in section 49-4-604(c) of the code.

The intent of this legislation is to ensure timely resolution of child abuse and neglect cases, thereby promoting the welfare of affected children and families. By imposing a clear deadline for court decisions, the bill aims to streamline the judicial process in these sensitive matters.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-4-611