The bill, known as Raylee's Law, aims to enhance the safety and welfare of children involved in pending child abuse or neglect investigations by the Department of Human Services. It introduces a new section, 49-2-802b, to the Code of West Virginia, which temporarily restricts custodial parents or guardians who are alleged perpetrators from withdrawing their children from public or private schools for home instruction during the investigation. This restriction remains in effect until the Department determines the investigation is unfounded or closed, or until a court issues a different order.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the court retains the authority to mandate alternative educational placements if necessary for the child's best interests. It emphasizes that the temporary restriction does not imply guilt, does not permanently limit home instruction, and should be interpreted narrowly to prioritize child safety during investigations. Furthermore, the Department of Human Services is required to notify the child's school and custodial parent or guardian about the temporary restriction upon the initiation of an investigation.

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