WV HB4602

Department of Human Services must establish a pilot program within 90 days to contract with private entities for caseworker aide services to supplement Bureau of Social Services staff

Contracted caseworker aides must meet substantially equivalent education, training, experience, and background check requirements as departmental caseworkers

Pilot program will operate in one or more districts of no more than three counties, selected based on criteria such as caseloads exceeding guidelines, persistent staff vacancies, or high rates of out-of-state child placements

Program runs for 15 months total: 3-month onboarding period followed by 12-month operational period, with a required report to the Joint Committee on Health before conclusion

Department retains supervisory and decision-making authority over all cases and may continue or expand the program statewide if evaluation shows improved case management capacity or outcomes