HB 5429
Luggage for foster care children transfered between homes
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill aims to ensure that foster care children have their own luggage when they are moved between foster homes or placements. The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources will be responsible for establishing a supply of luggage and developing procedures for its distribution, particularly when a child is removed from their home or changes placements. The bill also requires the department to track instances where luggage is not provided and report this information to the legislature annually.
Key provisions
- The Department of Health and Human Resources will provide luggage to foster children.
- Luggage is defined as a suitcase, duffel bag, backpack, or similar container.
- Luggage provided to a child remains the child’s property and cannot be reclaimed by the department or foster parent.
- The department will maintain a record of when a trash bag is used instead of luggage.
- The department must submit an annual report detailing instances of luggage shortages and reasons for not providing it.
- The department can accept donations and grants to support the luggage program.
- The bill establishes a new section (49-2-126a) specifically addressing luggage for foster children.
- The bill takes effect September 1, 2026.
Who is affected
- Foster care children
- Foster parents
- The Department of Health and Human Resources
- Kinship caregivers
- Children in foster care
Notable changes
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