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Bill

Bill

HB 2255

Relating to authorizing the Governor’s Committee on Crime, Delinquency, and Correction to promulgate a legislative rule relating to the protocol for law enforcement response to child abuse and neglect

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Smith

HB 2255 empowers the Governor’s Committee to set standardized protocols for law enforcement responses to child abuse, enhancing support for affected children and families.

To House Homeland Security
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2255

Summary of House Bill 2255

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 2255
Title: Relating to authorizing the Governor’s Committee on Crime, Delinquency, and Correction to promulgate a legislative rule relating to the protocol for law enforcement response to child abuse and neglect
Status: To House Homeland Security
Introduced: February 04, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Legislature--Rule Making

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2255 aims to empower the Governor’s Committee on Crime, Delinquency, and Correction to establish legislative rules that will guide law enforcement agencies in responding to incidents of child abuse and neglect. The intent is to create standardized protocols that enhance the effectiveness and consistency of law enforcement responses in such sensitive cases.

Key Provisions

  • Rule Promulgation: The bill authorizes the Governor’s Committee to develop and implement rules regarding law enforcement protocols for child abuse and neglect cases.
  • Standardization: The rules are intended to standardize responses across various law enforcement agencies, ensuring that all officers are trained and equipped to handle these situations effectively.
  • Training and Resources: The bill may lead to the development of training programs and resources for law enforcement personnel to improve their response to child abuse and neglect.

Affected Parties

  • Law Enforcement Agencies: The primary entities impacted will be local and state law enforcement agencies, which will need to adopt the new protocols.
  • Children and Families: The bill aims to benefit children and families affected by abuse and neglect by ensuring a more effective and compassionate law enforcement response.
  • Governor’s Committee on Crime, Delinquency, and Correction: This committee will take on a more active role in shaping the response protocols and ensuring compliance among law enforcement agencies.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: The bill is currently under consideration by the House Homeland Security Committee.
  • Timeline: Introduced on February 4, 2025, the bill is in the early stages of the legislative process, with further discussions and amendments expected as it moves through the committee.

Conclusion

House Bill 2255 represents a significant step towards improving the response of law enforcement to child abuse and neglect cases in West Virginia. By establishing clear protocols and guidelines, the bill seeks to ensure that law enforcement agencies are better prepared to protect vulnerable children and support affected families.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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