To establish a phased implementation of a Community-Based Child Welfare system in West Virginia.

HB 4964 establishes a phased transition to a community-based child welfare system in specific West Virginia regions (Berkeley, Jefferson counties, and Region IV), starting with designated areas. It requires the Bureau for Social Services to retain initial investigation and safety authority but transfer ongoing case management and service coordination to contracted nonprofit community providers after investigations conclude. Providers must meet strict qualifications (nonprofit status, accreditation, financial stability) and operate under case-rate contracts with shared financial risk, where they may keep savings from improved outcomes or cover excess costs. The bill mandates a 24-month evaluation report assessing child safety, costs, and provider performance before considering broader implementation.