CHARLESTON - State Senator Roman Prezioso (D-Marion) was recently appointed to the Court Improvement Program Oversight Board for an indefinite term by Chief Justice Robin Jean Davis. Per their website, the West Virginia Court Improvement Program Oversight Board is comprised of individuals who are involved with West Virginia’s court system in the area of abuse and neglect.

The Board oversees the State Court Improvement Program (CIP) which conduct assessments of state foster case laws and judicial processes and seeks to develop and implement a plan for system improvement.

The members include representatives of the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, West Virginia circuit court judges, West Virginia family court judges, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), prosecuting attorneys, and attorneys who serve as counsel for children and parents. Also serving on the Board is a former foster child, an educator, and several children’s advocates.

“It is a privilege and an honor to be appointed by Chief Justice Davis to serve on this board and I readily accept this challenge,” said Senator Prezioso. “I look forward to working with the other members of the Board to seek to improve the safety, permanency, and well being of children in the state’s child welfare system.”

The West Virginia Supreme Court initiated the Court Improvement Program in January 1995 and formed the CIP Oversight Board as the advisory group and task force to implement the program. The Supreme Court and the Oversight Board have continued to obtain federal grant funding and actively participate in the CIP every year since its inception.

For more information please contact Senator Prezioso at (304) 357-7961.