West Virginia SB16 creates the Child Protection Investigations Reform Act, requiring the Department of Human Services to notify individuals accused.

West Virginia SB16, the Child Protection Investigations Reform Act, mandates that the Department of Human Services inform individuals accused of child abuse or neglect of their rights during an investigation. This includes providing a brief, understandable summary of the investigation's procedures, the person's rights, and the process for acquiring access to the child if removed from the home. The department must also provide a written summary of the allegations and consult with legal counsel before agreeing to any voluntary safety plan. The act takes effect on July 1, 2026.

West Virginia SB16 creates the Child Protection Investigations Reform Act, requiring the Department of Human Services to notify individuals accused.

West Virginia SB16, the Child Protection Investigations Reform Act, mandates that the Department of Human Services inform individuals accused of child abuse or neglect of their rights during an investigation. This includes providing a brief, understandable summary of the investigation's procedures, the person's rights, and the process for acquiring access to the child if removed from the home. The department must also provide a written summary of the allegations and consult with legal counsel before agreeing to any voluntary safety plan. The act takes effect on July 1, 2026.