This bill amends West Virginia Code §49-4-402 to establish and clarify the framework for multidisciplinary investigative teams focused on child abuse cases. It mandates that each county's prosecuting attorney create such a team, which will include various permanent members such as child protective services caseworkers, law enforcement officers, health care providers, and educators. The team is responsible for coordinating investigations into allegations of child abuse and neglect, ensuring that all relevant information is kept confidential, and meeting regularly to discuss cases.

A significant addition to the law is the insertion of liability protection for members of the multidisciplinary team. Specifically, the bill states that no team member can be held personally liable for actions taken during the child abuse investigation process, except in cases of gross negligence, willful misconduct, or intentional misconduct. This provision aims to encourage participation in these critical investigations by alleviating concerns about personal legal repercussions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-4-402