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HB 4602

Relating to requiring the Department of Human Services to establish a pilot program to contract for supplemental caseworker aide services for the Bureau for Social Services

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Adam Burkhammer and 7 co-sponsors

West Virginia authorizes DHS to pilot contracted caseworker aides for the Bureau of Social Services, potentially outsourcing support roles currently filled by state employees.

Senate requests House to concur
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Bill Summary · HB 4602

Legislative bill overview

HB 4602 directs West Virginia's Department of Human Services to establish a pilot program that contracts with external providers to supply supplemental caseworker aide services for the Bureau of Social Services. The bill essentially allows the department to outsource some caseworker support functions rather than relying solely on state employees.

Why is this important

Caseworker aides handle critical administrative and support tasks in child welfare, adult protective services, and other social service programs. High caseloads and staff turnover in these agencies are persistent problems affecting service quality and case outcomes. This pilot could either alleviate workload pressures on existing staff or reduce the state's direct employment of support positions, depending on implementation.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and accountability: Contracting for services typically costs more than direct state employment; the bill doesn't specify budget limits or require cost-benefit analysis before or after the pilot
  • Worker continuity and training: Contracted aides may have higher turnover than state employees, potentially undermining relationship-building with vulnerable populations and creating training inefficiencies
  • Wage and benefit implications: Private contractors often pay lower wages than state positions, raising questions about service quality, staff retention, and broader labor market effects in West Virginia's social services sector

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

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