The bill amends West Virginia's Code to enhance the screening and treatment protocols for children in the foster care system regarding sex and labor trafficking. It mandates that all children entering foster care, kinship care, or residential placements be screened for trafficking by a trained child advocate. Additionally, youth who are recovered after going missing must also undergo screening, and all children in these care settings will be subject to periodic screenings. The bill specifies that an evidence-based tool should be utilized for these assessments.

Furthermore, if a screening indicates that a child has been a victim of sex or labor trafficking, the Department of Human Services is required to provide immediate support services to the child, in accordance with funding guidelines under Titles IV-E of the Social Security Act. This legislative change aims to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children in the state's care by proactively identifying and addressing potential trafficking situations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-106
Committee Substitute: 49-2-106