The West Virginia Senate Health and Human Resources Committee made significant strides in child welfare legislation during their meeting on March 25, 2025. The committee approved two key bills aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of Child Protective Services (CPS) and ensuring the best interests of children are prioritized in legal proceedings.

The first bill, Senate Bill 821, mandates the use of body-worn cameras by CPS workers during investigations. This legislation aims to provide a transparent record of interactions, which can protect both the rights of the children and the workers involved. The bill requires CPS workers to obtain consent before recording, addressing concerns about privacy while still allowing for documentation of the investigation process. The committee recognized the potential benefits of this measure, with one senator sharing a personal story about how monitoring devices saved a family member's life, underscoring the importance of timely medical interventions.

The second bill, Senate Bill 822, introduces a pilot program that will utilize mobile technology to assist CPS workers in conducting investigations. This initiative will allow for real-time documentation of cases, improving efficiency and worker satisfaction. The pilot will be implemented in two counties, with the aim of assessing the technology's effectiveness before a broader rollout. The committee discussed the challenges of implementing such technology statewide and emphasized the need for a manageable pilot to evaluate its impact.

Additionally, the committee advanced Senate Bill 865, which codifies the principle that the best interest of the child must be the primary consideration in decisions made by the Department of Human Services and the court system. This bill aims to ensure that children's needs are prioritized above all other factors, including those of parents and state agencies. It establishes a framework for evaluating decisions affecting children, reinforcing the commitment to child welfare in West Virginia.

All three bills will now proceed to the full Senate for further consideration, with recommendations for passage. The committee's actions reflect a proactive approach to improving child welfare services and ensuring that the needs of vulnerable children are met effectively. As these bills move forward, they hold the promise of enhancing the safety and well-being of children across the state.