This bill amends West Virginia Code §49-2-803 to enhance the reporting requirements for suspected child abuse and neglect. It mandates that professionals who suspect a child is being abused, including sexual abuse or assault, must report their suspicions to the Department of Health and Human Resources within 24 hours. Notably, the bill specifies that if the reporter believes the child has suffered serious physical or sexual abuse, they must also report to local or county law enforcement agencies, replacing the previous requirement to report only to the State Police.

Additionally, the bill requires that county boards of education and private school administrators provide written statements to all employees outlining these reporting requirements and obtain signed acknowledgments from them. It clarifies that individuals under the age of 18 are not subject to these reporting provisions, while also allowing any person with reasonable cause to report suspected abuse or neglect, regardless of their professional status. The overall aim of the bill is to ensure that cases of sexual abuse, sexual assault, or physical abuse are reported promptly to the appropriate local authorities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-803