The proposed bill aims to enhance pediatric mental health support in West Virginia by establishing regional pediatric mental health hubs and providing immediate behavioral coaching for parents of children under 12. It introduces a new article in the state code, titled "Parental Support & Pediatric Access," which includes a mandate that no child under 12 should be removed from their home for mental health reasons if community-based resources are unavailable. The bill emphasizes the importance of in-home clinical support and outlines the responsibilities of the newly created regional hubs, which will include maintaining a directory of local services, a live map of available pediatric counselors, and providing timely behavioral health coaching to parents.

Additionally, the bill proposes a funding mechanism by diverting five percent of the current expenditures on "Out-of-State Residential Placement" to a Pediatric Resource Fund, which will finance these in-home services. The regional hubs will also establish telehealth kiosks in county health departments to ensure that parents without high-speed internet can access necessary specialty appointments. This comprehensive approach aims to improve access to mental health resources for children and support families in managing mental health crises effectively.

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