Extending time frame for Department of Human Services to identify relatives and fictive kin

SB 451 extends the time the West Virginia Department of Human Services has to identify relatives and fictive kin (non-biological family members with a close relationship) of children removed due to abuse or neglect. The bill changes the deadline for filing an initial list of relatives from 21 days to a longer period and extends the deadline for determining if identified relatives can provide foster care from 45 days to 60 days. This provides more time for the department to locate and contact potential caregivers. The bill directly affects child welfare cases in West Virginia, where state law prioritizes placing children with relatives or fictive kin when out-of-home care is necessary.