VA HB1222

Requires local departments of social services to audio or audiovisually record all child welfare interviews conducted during child abuse and neglect investigations and family assessments

Defines "child welfare interview" as a documented interview with all relevant parties, including children and adults, to gather information about concerns of abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence

Allows any person to audio record their communications with child protective services personnel during investigations or family assessments, provided all parties are aware of the recording

Specifies that failure to record an interview does not make voluntary statements inadmissible in civil or criminal proceedings, and individuals cannot bring civil actions against local departments for failing to record

Mandates that recordings be securely stored by local departments, with the Department of Social Services approving all recording equipment used