HB 4017
Faith Based Partnership
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill allows the Secretary of the Department of Human Services in West Virginia to contract with both secular and faith-based organizations to provide child welfare services. It permits parents or legal guardians to object to a child’s placement in a faith-based service due to religious grounds, and requires the department to find an alternative placement if an objection is made, unless a court order dictates otherwise. The bill aims to expand the pool of providers for child welfare services while respecting religious freedom.
Key provisions
- Authorizes the Secretary of DHS to contract with both secular and faith-based child welfare providers.
- Allows faith-based organizations to participate in child welfare programs on the same basis as other providers.
- Protects the religious character of faith-based organizations involved in contracts.
- Permits parents or legal guardians to object to placement at a faith-based organization based on religious expression.
- Requires the Department of Human Services to find an alternative placement if a parent objects, unless a court order exists.
- Establishes a process for hearings if a child or parent wishes to maintain placement at a faith-based organization.
Who is affected
- Department of Human Services
- Faith-based organizations
- Parents and legal guardians of children in foster care
- Child welfare service providers
- West Virginia residents involved in child welfare services
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Hanshaw (Mr. Speaker)
Cosponsor
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