This bill amends the West Virginia Domestic Violence Act by renaming the "Batterer Intervention and Prevention Program" to the "Abuse Intervention Program" and clarifying definitions related to domestic violence programs. It allows the Abuse Intervention Program to be delivered either in-person or through a live, synchronous virtual platform, while ensuring that an in-person option remains available. The bill also outlines the composition and responsibilities of the Family Protection Services Board, which will include representatives from various organizations and will be tasked with proposing rules for legislative approval to implement the article's provisions.

Additionally, the bill establishes licensure requirements for domestic violence programs, including the Abuse Intervention Program, and details the board's powers and duties in overseeing these programs. It includes provisions for closing programs that do not meet established standards and emphasizes the confidentiality of participants' information. The bill also addresses deferred adjudication for certain offenses involving family or household members, allowing individuals without prior felony convictions to enter a deferred adjudication program, particularly for first offense domestic violence violations if agreed upon by both the state and the defendant. Overall, the bill aims to modernize and clarify the legal framework surrounding intervention and prevention programs to better protect victims of domestic violence.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 48-26-203, 48-26-301, 48-26-401, 48-26-402, 48-26-403, 48-26-406, 48-26-701, 61-11-22a