This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new section, 49-2-125a, which prohibits the placement of children in the custody of the state into nonapproved facilities. The legislation stipulates that only the Secretary of the Department of Human Services can approve placements in unapproved facilities under extraordinary circumstances. Additionally, the bill mandates the Department of Human Services to maintain and annually update a list of approved out-of-state placement facilities, which must include details about the location and specialty of each facility.

The bill emphasizes the importance of ensuring that children in state custody are placed in safe and approved environments, thereby enhancing the standards of care provided to these vulnerable individuals. By establishing clear guidelines and exceptions for facility placements, the legislation seeks to protect the welfare of children while also providing necessary flexibility in exceptional situations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-125a