WV HB3445

Requires private alternative adolescent residential or outdoor programs to obtain a license from the West Virginia Office of Health Facility Licensure and Certification before operating

Mandates criminal and child protection background checks for all program staff with direct access to participants, and requires programs to report any use of restraints or seclusion within one business day

Prohibits programs from using physical discipline or threats, depriving youth of basic necessities or education, admitting youth outside approved age ranges, or engaging in sexual abuse, exploitation, or harassment

Requires programs to allow parents/guardians to remove youth at any time, facilitate weekly confidential video communication with families, and provide 24-hour access to a child abuse hotline

Establishes penalties for operating without a license or violating regulations, including fines up to $500 and/or jail up to 90 days for first offense, with each day of continuing violation constituting a separate offense