The proposed bill, known as Raylee's Law, aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 49-2-802b, which establishes educational placement protections for children involved in child abuse and neglect investigations. The bill prohibits county boards from allowing home educational instruction for currently enrolled public school students if there is an ongoing investigation against a custodial parent or guardian, or an individual instructing the child, initiated by school personnel under mandatory reporting requirements. This measure is intended to ensure the safety and welfare of children during such investigations.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the county superintendent develop a policy in collaboration with the state board of education to ensure they are notified when a report of suspected child abuse or neglect is made. Upon confirmation of an investigation, the superintendent is required to seek case status from the Department of Human Services, which must respond within 48 hours. If the investigation is not substantiated within 7 days, the superintendent is authorized to permit home instruction for the child.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-802b
Committee Substitute: 49-2-802b