This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by establishing a "Home-First" mental health framework for children under the age of 12. It mandates that no child may be removed from their home for mental health reasons if community-based resources are unavailable, emphasizing the importance of in-home clinical support. Additionally, the bill proposes the creation of three Regional Pediatric Mental Health Hubs, which will maintain a directory of available pediatric counselors, provide immediate behavioral coaching for parents while they wait for professional help, and establish telehealth kiosks in rural areas to improve access to specialists.

To fund these initiatives, the bill stipulates that five percent of the funds currently allocated for "Out-of-State Residential Placement" will be redirected to a Pediatric Resource Fund dedicated to supporting in-home mental health services. This legislative effort seeks to enhance mental health support for children and their families, ensuring that necessary resources are available within the community.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-11-1, 9-11-2, 9-11-3