WV HB4017

Authorizes the Secretary of the Department of Human Services to contract with both secular and faith-based organizations to provide child welfare services under Chapter 49 of the West Virginia Code

Faith-based organizations may serve as contractors without altering their religious character, internal governance, or removing religious art, icons, scripture, or symbols

Requires the department to maintain the independence of faith-based contractors regarding the definition, development, practice, and expression of their religious beliefs

Allows a legal parent or guardian to object to their child's placement at a faith-based organization on religious expression grounds, requiring the department to find alternative placement unless it violates a court order

Mandates a hearing if the child or another legal parent/guardian wants the child to remain at a faith-based placement when an objection is raised