This bill amends West Virginia Code §49-4-301 to allow a parent, guardian, or custodian to pay for an independent medical evaluation for a child who is in temporary protective custody. The bill clarifies that while a child may be held in protective custody for emergency medical treatment, the parents or guardians retain the right to obtain an independent evaluation at their own expense. Additionally, the bill updates references to specific sections of the code, replacing outdated language with current citations.

The legislation also includes provisions regarding the conditions under which a child may be taken into protective custody, the responsibilities of law enforcement officers, and the rights of parents or guardians during this process. It emphasizes the importance of notifying parents or guardians about the custody and the reasons for it, as well as ensuring that any retention of a child complies with specified time limits and requirements. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the rights of parents and guardians while ensuring the welfare of children in emergency situations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-4-301