Requiring investigative and assessment services in relation to child welfare

SB 99 requires West Virginia's child welfare agencies to implement two distinct response tracks for reports of child abuse and neglect: an investigation track for serious cases (like imminent danger) and a family assessment track focused on support and prevention for less severe situations. The bill mandates that the Bureau for Social Services create a screening system to determine which track applies, using tools that comply with existing law. It also clarifies how agencies must collect and retain data on these cases. This directly affects families reporting abuse/neglect, child welfare workers, and the Bureau for Social Services by changing how they respond to reports. The law aims to reduce unnecessary family separations while ensuring serious safety threats are addressed promptly.