This bill proposes the establishment of a community-based child welfare system in West Virginia, specifically through the addition of a new section, 49-2-1007, to the Code of West Virginia. The legislation outlines the importance of Child Protective Services (CPS) and emphasizes that community-based systems can enhance child safety and well-being by engaging local providers. The initial implementation of this program will occur in Berkeley County, Jefferson County, and Bureau for Social Services Region IV, with any further expansion requiring legislative approval. The bill delineates the roles and responsibilities of the Bureau for Social Services, which will retain authority over critical functions such as intake investigations and emergency custody decisions, while allowing for the transfer of case management to contracted community-based providers after initial investigations.

Additionally, the bill establishes guidelines for the contracting of community-based providers, including qualifications and a case-rate payment model that reflects the responsibilities assumed by these providers. It mandates the development of a case assignment methodology to ensure multiple providers can operate within a region and promotes accountability through oversight measures. The department is required to submit a report within 18 months of implementation to evaluate the program's effectiveness in terms of child safety, fiscal performance, and provider capacity, along with recommendations for future actions. The costs associated with this implementation will be covered by the department's existing budget.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-1007