Bill > HB4964

This bill establishes a phased implementation of a Community-Based Child Welfare system in West Virginia, aiming to improve child safety, permanency, and well-being by involving local providers. The system will initially be rolled out in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties, and in Bureau for Social Services Region IV, with any further expansion requiring legislative approval. While the Bureau for Social Services' Child Protective Services (CPS) will retain exclusive authority for initial intake of abuse and neglect reports, investigations, and emergency decisions, responsibility for case management, service coordination, and court functions will be transferred to contracted community-based providers once an investigation is complete and ongoing services are needed. These contracted providers must be qualified nonprofit organizations with national accreditation or equivalent capacity, financial solvency, and sufficient local presence. The bill outlines a case-rate payment model for these providers, which includes shared-risk provisions where providers can retain savings from improved outcomes but also assume responsibility for costs exceeding the agreed-upon rate. The department will maintain oversight of contract compliance, performance, and fiscal accountability, and will not resume day-to-day case management after a transfer. Within 24 months, the department must report to the legislature on the system's outcomes, costs, and provider performance, offering recommendations for its future.

Health and Social Services

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4964&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill