Healthcare (Mental Health · Children)

HB 5042 prohibits placing children under state custody (such as in foster care or juvenile justice) in facilities not approved by West Virginia's Department of Human Services (DHS). The bill requires DHS to maintain and annually update a public list of approved out-of-state facilities, including each facility's location and specialty (e.g., mental health care). Exceptions for unapproved facilities are only permitted in "extraordinary circumstances" with DHS Secretary approval. This law directly affects state child welfare systems, DHS oversight, and facilities seeking to house children in state care.

SB 754 creates a special fund called the "Foster Care Facilities Improvement Fund" to support West Virginia nonprofit organizations operating foster care facilities. The fund, financed through state appropriations, donations, and investment income, prioritizes grants for renovating, constructing, or maintaining residential childcare facilities - especially those providing psychiatric, neurodevelopmental, and trauma services. An Advisory Committee (appointed by the Department of Human Services) recommends quarterly disbursements based on identified needs, with priority given to local nonprofits improving facility access and quality. The bill ensures unspent balances roll over annually and reinvests savings from reduced out-of-state placements to expand high-quality care within the state.