Bill > HB5497

This bill amends existing West Virginia law to grant immunity from personal liability to employees of child advocacy centers for actions they take while participating in the child abuse investigation process or providing services through the center, meaning they generally cannot be sued for mistakes made in these roles. However, this protection does not extend to situations involving gross negligence, willful and wanton misconduct, or intentional wrongdoing. Child advocacy centers, as defined in the law, are facilities that offer a safe environment for children and participate in multidisciplinary teams to respond to child abuse allegations, conduct forensic interviews, provide medical evaluations and therapeutic interventions, and offer victim support throughout investigations and legal proceedings.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5497&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill