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Bill

SB 540

Relating to audio recording during CPS investigation

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kevan Bartlett and 6 co-sponsors

West Virginia would require CPS workers to wear body cameras during child welfare investigations and home visits to create objective records of interactions and conditions.

To House Judiciary
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Bill Summary · SB 540

Legislative bill overview

SB 540 requires Child Protective Services (CPS) workers in West Virginia to wear body-worn cameras while conducting investigations and home visits. The bill establishes standards for camera operation, data storage, access protocols, and retention periods for recorded footage.

Why is this important

Body-worn cameras create objective records of CPS interactions, potentially protecting both children and workers by documenting conditions, statements, and conduct during sensitive investigations. This addresses concerns about accountability in child welfare investigations while also providing evidence that can support legal proceedings or defend workers against false allegations.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns: Recording inside private homes raises Fourth Amendment questions and may deter families from cooperating with investigations or seeking help
  • Cost and implementation: Significant expenses for camera equipment, secure data storage, IT infrastructure, and staff training could strain already-limited CPS budgets
  • Data security and access: Unclear protocols for who can access sensitive recordings involving children could create risks for family privacy or require complex redaction procedures
  • Scope ambiguity: Questions remain about whether cameras record continuously, only during specified activities, or at worker discretion, affecting both effectiveness and privacy protection

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

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