SB 543
Requiring Bureau for Social Services to file legislative rule
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill requires the Bureau for Social Services in West Virginia to formally publish its policy manual, which covers child protective services, foster care, and youth services, as a legislative rule. The bureau must file this rule with the Secretary of State’s Office by July 1, 2026, and subsequently update it as needed. The rule-making process will follow established state procedures. This legislation aims to increase transparency and accountability in the bureau’s operational guidelines.
Key provisions
- The Bureau of Social Services must file its policy manual as a legislative rule.
- The rule must cover child protective services, foster care, youth services, licensing, and casework standards.
- The rule-making process must adhere to state regulations outlined in §29A-3-1 et seq.
- The initial filing deadline is July 1, 2026.
- Subsequent amendments and revisions to the policy manual must also be filed as legislative rules.
- Internal guidance can be issued for short-term needs, but must be incorporated into the legislative rule process after 180 days.
- The rule must incorporate requirements from the Integrated Pest Management Program.
Who is affected
- Bureau for Social Services
- Child Protective Services Agencies
- Foster Care Providers
- Youth Service Organizations
- West Virginia Residents involved in child welfare services
Notable changes
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