Legislative Lookout
2026 Final Legislative Wrap Up
As detailed in Kristie and Dale’s columns in the Rising Voice, supporting and funding public education was simply not a priority for the legislature during the 2026 session. Attempts to increase the amount of the pay raise as it moved through the process were practically impossible given the massive amount of money given to the HOPE Scholarship program this year. To put it in perspective, legislators could have tripled the amount of the pay raise for teachers, service personnel and state troopers and still allotted roughly $140 million to HOPE for the same price tag as the appropriation given solely to HOPE this year. Attempts to increase funding for special education students failed to pass on the final day of the session. These things, when added to the complete failure of the legislature to address PEIA during this session, should demonstrate why educators and those in our communities must collectively vote to bring focus back to our public schools and the people who serve our students.
Pay Raise Bill
The House passed HB 4765, the teacher, school personnel, and state trooper pay raise bill on Feb 19th. The bill passed with a vote of 95-0 with 5 members absent. The bill provides for a $1,560 increase for teachers, $87 per month for service professionals, and a 3% pay increase for State Police. The bill moved to the Senate, where the gamesmanship commenced. The bill was amended by the Senate Finance Committee to include market enhancement pay. Most committee members were in the dark about this amendment and had many questions that were not addressed during the meeting. The bill was passed as amended by the full Senate and then was sent to the House to concur. The House refused to concur with the amended version and sent the message back to the Senate to recede and pass the original bill on the last morning of the session. The Senate waited until around 5 minutes until the midnight deadline to recede and pass the original pay bill.
No Action from Lawmakers on PEIA
In what can be described as one of the biggest disappointments of this session is the failure of legislators to pass any measure to offer employees relief on PEIA. Introduced bills to address PEIA costs for employees never appeared on a committee agenda. This affects the impact of any potential pay increase. SB 660 would have removed the requirement that an employee pay the actuarial value for spousal PEIA coverage and instead require the employee to pay for the coverage based upon their salary and tier of coverage. SB 526 would have modified the 80/20 method of calculation of the employer and employee contribution percentages for PEIA premiums, lowering costs for employees. Both bills would have offered employees some financial relief in their PEIA costs and the legislature’s failure to address this serious issue that affects so many West Virginians should be remembered in the upcoming elections.
Attempts to put guardrails on HOPE Scholarship watered down, HOPE Scholarship receives massive funding expansion
The initial version of HB 5686 capped the Hope Scholarship amount to a flat $5,250, changed the payout to four times a year instead of two, limited payments to in-state private schools only, deleted some of the current uses for the Hope Scholarship, and provided that homeschool students with an IEP must take the statewide assessment given in the public schools. Education WV believed this bill provided much needed boundaries in both the funding and implementation of the program. However, the bill met resistance and House Finance ultimately put forth a committee substitute that bill simply changed the payment schedule for the payout of the HOPE Scholarship from twice a year to 4 times a year. The watered down version of the bill passed. Additionally, the Governor’s appropriation of a whopping $290 million to expand the HOPE Scholarship program was passed as a supplemental appropriation.
Bills that passed
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4982 creates the Make WV Healthy Act of 2026. The purpose of this bill is to establish and expand a coordinated, statewide Healthy Lifestyles framework to promote nutrition, farm to school initiatives, physical activity, and wellness through cross-agency collaboration, school-based initiatives, public-private partnerships, grants, and reporting requirements to improve the health of West Virginians. The bill had passed the House and amendments were adopted in the Senate, where the bill passed. The House concurred with the Senate’s changes.
HB 4575 is a bill in response to Hancock County’s financial crisis. This bill appropriates the funding to Hancock County Schools to meet their payroll and vendor obligations. During the Finance Committee meeting, the Chair and committee members made it clear that they expect the $8 million dollars for Hancock County to be a loan, and to be paid back at some point. The bill was amended by the Senate before passage, and was sent back to the House, who concurred with the Senate version.
Committee Substitute for HB 4002 establishes the WV Collaboratory, which facilitates the dissemination of policy and research expertise through WVU, Marshall University, and West Virginia State University. The bill passed.
Committee Substitute for HB 4005, the Workforce Development Act of 2026, provides for apprenticeship programs for ages 16 through 18, and clarifies the categories of employment which are prohibited or authorized for those who are under the age of 16. The bill passed.
Com. Sub. for HB 4087 creates the West Virginia-Ireland Education Alliance. The bill will create $50,000 grant opportunities for 2-year and 4-year institutions. The bill passed the House and the bill was made effective on March 17, 2026. The bill passed.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4395 relating to investigations of allegations of child safety violations for school personnel. This provides the investigations shall continue even if the employee transfers to another school or resigns prior to the investigation being complete. The bill passed.
HB 4592 requires safety mapping data for higher ed institutions and school crisis response planning. The bill passed.
HB 4996 relates to bail in cases involving terroristic threats to schools or children. A Committee Substitute was offered and creates mandatory bail conditions for individuals charged with making terrorist threats against a school, or a similar location including condition of bail or pretrial release that the defendant shall not reside within 1,000 feet of the boundary of any licensed child care center or school, GPS monitoring of the individuals charged, and mandates no contact, either direct or indirect, with any student, school employee, or any other person directly associated with or employed by the threatened facility. The bill passed.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4999 relates to crimes against athletic officials. The bill adds “participants” and other school personnel to the language. The bill passed.
HB 5110 amends the code providing for waiver of tuition and fees for older persons auditing certain college classes. This bill changes the age from 65 to 60. The bill passed.
Engrossed Committee Substitute for HB 5212 is a bill to revise, update and streamline the requirements for higher ed grants, scholarships, loans and financial aid for postsecondary education programs, workforce development initiatives, and workforce grants. The bill is a series of strike through and new policies for higher ed institutions. A Committee Substitute was adopted and allows people with a degree to apply for a grant if going into the EMT field. The bill passed.
HB 5438 modifies the foundation allowance to improve instructional programs. The House voted to make the effective date July 1, 2026. The Senate made some technical changes and the House voted to concur thereby completing legislative action.
SB 63 creates the Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act (SOAR). The bill would allow an established public charter school to expand into a rural school that faces closure or consolidation. It provides for additional funding if necessary for the school. A comprehensive strike and insert amendment incorporates portions of SB 67 that had been left out. It provides the original intent of the bill to expand the Charter School. It provides for the right of first refusal for unused school building. It provides that a “conversion” charter school be authorized and regulated by the county public school. A committee amendment inserted a new subsection for rural in person public charter school and the definitions. This is to clarify the language allowing the county to authorize the public conversion charter school. The bill passed.
Eng. SB 155 authorizes the State Board of Education to establish an adjunct teaching permit and allow counties to enter into a contract with these individuals when no certified teacher applied for the position. The individual must have a four-year college degree or 4 years’ experience in the related field. The bill passed the Senate unanimously. On 3/4/26, the House Education Committee adopted a committee amendment in that would make two changes to the bill. The first require the position to be posted each year and the adjunct could reapply each year. The second change added clarifying language about the adjunct applying each year. SB 155 passed.
Com. Sub. for SB 402 creates the Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act. This bill was introduced at the request of the Governor. The bill includes establishment of a Micro-Credentialing Program, expands the apprenticeship training tax credits, and eliminates barriers to professional licensures for military trained applicants. The bill passed.
SB 502 creates the Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act. The purpose of this bill is to protect and sustain women’s collegiate Olympic sports programs through permanent endowment funding, reward verified institutional efficiencies; incentivize private investment through targeted tax credits; and ensure full compliance with federal Title IX requirements. The bill passed.
Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 558 modifies penalties for school bus safety violations by vehicle operators. The bill passed.
Committee Substitute for SB 694 removes county residency requirements for county superintendent of schools. An amendment to omit the travel time (hourly) restrictions was ultimately adopted. The bill passed.
Committee Substitute for SB 890 changes certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours. The Committee Substitute strikes the reference to school employment term and removes reference to retirement, so it doesn’t affect existing employment contracts and retirement benefits. It brings the focus to instructional time. It defines “employment term” as 200-day contract and “instructional term” as 954 instructional hours for teachers/aides. It includes the “Leave Teacher Alone” days from SB 802. It changes six two-hour blocks for faculty senate days to three two-hour blocks and clarifies these meetings will occur on “Educator Focus Days.” The bill passed.
SB 899 permits certain teachers to be certified to work as school principals. A committee substitute was brought before the committee. The bill permits teachers with 15 years of experience at the elementary, high school, or middle school level to be certified to be principals at the levels they have taught in for a minimum of 15 years and have good evaluations. The WVDE will create a one year program for principals to address topics to be included including school law, finance, etc. The bill passed.
SB 913 removes the annual report requirement for WV Research Trust Fund. This bill eliminates reporting requirements for the WV Research Trust Fund (once known as Bucks for Brains) because there is no longer a balance in the fund. The bill keeps the program in place in case the state wants to revive it in the future. The bill passed.
SB 1064 redefines “long-term substitute” as it relates to public school personnel. The bill will allow a long-term substitute to remain in a position for the year that no certified teacher has applied with the position being posted at the beginning of the term and at mid-term to see if a certified teacher can fill the position. A primary amendment was offered to make technical changes and redefine “long-term substitute” to avoid unintended consequences. A secondary amendment was offered by Delegate Toney to add the ability to pay a lump sum payment of no more than $6,000 to the family of an employee who dies before retirement and has unused sick days. The secondary amendment was ruled not germane. The primary amendment was adopted. SB 1064 as amended passed.
HB 4425 to repeal the provision allowing students to transfer from one school to another without losing eligibility. The bill repeals the current transfer rule for athletics. The bill passed.
HB 4768 updates definitions to incorporate federal law changes to qualified higher education expenses for purposes of 529 accounts. The bill adds public schools to the definition of eligible educational institutions in which the money may be used. The bill passed.
HB 4798 requires teachers to wear a “mobile alert button” for emergency situations, to be known as “Alyssa's Law.” This bill would require the alert button to be worn by all teachers, and the funding would come from private donations and administered by the Department of Homeland Security. Four counties in WV already use this system for educators. A Committee Substitute was offered that makes this permissive instead of required. The bill passed.
Committee Substitute for HB 4965 relates to patient-centered treatment flexibility within the Public Employees Insurance Agency. The committee substitute allows a patient that has received prior approval to receive an alternate treatment without prior approval. It does prohibit reverting back to the previous treatment. The bill passed.
The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 4995 requires the use of video cameras in certain special education classrooms. The bill requires notice to be given if there was an interruption or the recording and does not allow the video to be used for employee evaluation purposes. The bill passed.
HB 5012 providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. A Committee Substitute addressed the concerns of Education West Virginia, and now only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students. The bill passed.
HB 5048 ensures virtual instruction for foster students while in temporary placement facilities. The bill provides virtual learning through the county the student was last enrolled. The bill passed.
Com. Sub. for HB 5089 providing for verification mastery of content standards for transcripts when a student enrolls or re-enrolls in a public school. A Committee Substitute was adopted to clarify that each public school shall review the class, grade, and source on the student's public-school transcript. It also requires reports made to LOCEA of the demographics of students who re-enroll into public schools in the state and whether they attended homeschooling, charter, private, micro or a HOPE program. The bill passed.
HB 5354 relating to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education. The bill strikes outdated language and adds mental health loan program and the STAND program. The bill passed.
Notable bills that died
SB 11 sought to allow certain Teachers Retirement System members to exchange unused leave for monetary compensation. The bill would have provided a cash bonus in exchange for up to 10 days unused days of personal leave.
Com. Sub. for SB 114 sought to create a Paid Parental Leave Pilot Program benefit program for employees of county boards of education. It would have allowed for 12 weeks of paid parental leave, for the care of biological, foster and adopted children.
Committee Substitute for SB 176 would have increased non-traditional instructional days for WV teachers from 5 to 10.
HB 4656 sought to address chronic absenteeism. This bill would have created a Student Support Specialist in each county to work with students with chronic absenteeism. The bill also looks at preventative measures for intervention rather than punitive measures.
Com. Sub. for HB 5537 began as a bill to repeal obsolete and outdated sections of the education code. The bill passed the House and moved to the Senate for consideration. The Senate amended the bill by adding Raylee's Law which would prevent a parent from beginning homeschool if there is a report by a mandatory reporter (educators) of abuse. If the report is not substantiated within 10 days, the county must approve the homeschool request. The Senate passed the bill and it went back to the House on the final day of the session. The motion was made to concur with the Senate amendment with further amendments. A series of amendments were offered and defeated. The motion to adopt the bill passed but the Senate adjourned sine die before they could receive the report.
HB 5453 would have modified the school aid funding formula and increased funding for special education students. The bill provided additional weighting for level two (1.2 x funding) and level three (1.3 x) special education students. These funds must be used for the instruction of the special needs students. The funding established in this bill for tier 2 and tier 3 special needs students would have applied for all public schools including public charter schools. The bill died on the final day of the session after the House failed to concur with amended version passed by the Senate.
Daily Updates
March 14, 2026- Day 60, Final Day of the 2026 Legislative Session
(Education WV members should watch their email for a comprehensive final legislative in the coming days.)
Pay Raise Bill : HB 4765 is the pay bill for teachers, service personnel and state troopers. The Senate had amended the bill to include the market share enhancement. It was explained there was an error in the title amendment. The motion was made in the House to refuse the bill and ask the Senate to recede. The motion passed. The bill went back to the Senate early in the day. At 11:57 PM, the Senate receded and passed the original pay raise bill without the Senate market enhancement amendment.
The following bills were received from the Senate:
HB 4573 the Foster Youth Post-Secondary Transition Awareness Act. The Senate amended the bill concerning Agriculture Education into the bill so the House refused to concur and asked the Senate to recede.
HB 4588 relating to participating in the federal tax credit scholarship program. The Senate changed the agency in charge therefore the House refused to concur and asked the Senate to recede.
HB 5212 relating to financial aid for post-secondary education. The House concurred and the bill now goes to the Governor.
HB 5048 to ensure virtual instruction for foster students' while in temporary placement. The House moved to concur with the Senate changes and the bill now goes to the Governor.
HB 4592 relating to college campus safety. The Senate made technical changes and the House voted to concur. The bill now goes to the Governor.
HB 4996 relating to bail in cases involving terroristic threats to schools or children. The Senate amended language from SB 473 into the bill. The House moved to concur with the changes and the bill now goes to the Governor.
HB 5438 to modify the foundation allowance to improve instructional programs. The House voted to make the effective date July 1, 2026. The Senate made some technical changes and the House voted to concur thereby completing Legislative action.
SB 890 the Changing the school calendar from days or months to minutes. The Senate changed the minimum number of minutes required from 954 back to 900. The motion to concur with the Senate amendment was adopted and the effective date of July 1, 2027 was adopted. This completes Legislative action and the bill goes to the Governor.
HB 5537 repealing obsolete and outdated sections of the Education code. The Senate amended the bill by adding Raylee's Law which would prevent a parent from beginning homeschool if there is a report by a mandatory reported (educators) of abuse. If the report is not substantiated within 10 days, the county must approve the homeschool request. The motion was made to concur with the Senate amendment with further amendments. A series of amendments were offered and defeated. The motion to adopt the bill passed but the Senate adjourned sine die before they could receive the report.
Earlier in the day:
There were 23 bills on third reading. The following were education related:
HB 5694 Supplemental appropriation to the WVDE. The bill makes technical corrections as related to HB 4575 ( the $8,000,000 for counties in crisis) so the money appropriated can be spent. The rules were suspended to allow the bill to be introduced and read three times. The bill passed by a vote of 97-0 with 2 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for SB 899 permitting certain teachers to be certified to work as school principals. This bill would allow the WVDE to develop a year-long program for teachers with 15 years' experience and good evaluations to work as school principals at the school level they have taught. The bill passed by a vote of 88-5 with 6 members absent and not voting.
SB 1064 redefining "long-term substitute" as it relates to public school personnel. The bill would allow a long-term substitute to remain in a position for the year that no certified teacher has applied with the position being posted at the beginning of the term and at mid-term to see if a certified teacher can fill the position. A primary amendment was offered to make technical changes and redefine "long-term substitute" to avoid unintended consequences. A secondary amendment was offered by Delegate Toney to add the ability to pay a lump sum payment of no more than $6,000 to the family of an employee who dies before retirement and has unused sick days. The Secondary amendment was ruled not germane. The primary amendment was adopted. SB 1064 as amended passed by a vote of 95-1 with 3 members absent.
March 13, 2026- Day 59 of the session
Pay Raise Update: HB 4765, the pay raise bill for teachers, service personnel and state troopers, was on third reading with the right to amend today in the Senate. The bill initially provided for a $1,560 increase for teachers, $87 per month for service professionals, and a 3% pay increase for State Police, as passed by the House. A strike and insert amendment was added in Senate Finance this week to create “market enhancement pay” beginning July 1, 2027 in addition to the across the board raise initially proposed. This development created a multitude of unanswered questions asked by Education WV and legislators regarding the impact of market enhancement pay to employees in both affected and unaffected counties. These questions spurned talk of additional amendments forthcoming. Today on the floor, the strike and insert amendment was offered by the Finance Committee to add market pay enhancements to specific areas of the state and defines how this is calculated. The amendment to the amendment ensures every county gets at least 1% market pay enhancement increase. Calculations are done annually and places a cap at 20%. The strike and insert amendment was amended by Senator Barrett that would limit the enhancement to no more than 5% of the contiguous counties. It would provide that once the enhancement pay was provided, it could not be reduced. The amendment to the amendment was adopted. The amendment as amended was adopted. HB 4765 as amended passed by a vote of 34-0.
The bill will need to go back to the House since it is different from the version they passed. It is unclear if the House will support the Senate version as amended or attempt to make their own amendments to the Senate’s changes.
House
Floor Session
Third Reading
SB 63 creates the Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act. The bill would allow an established public charter school to expand into a rural school that faces closure or consolidation. It provides for additional funding if necessary for the school. A comprehensive strike and insert amendment incorporates portions of SB 67 that had been left out. It provides the original intent of the bill to expand the Charter School. It provides for the right of first refusal for unused school building. It provides that a “conversion” charter school be authorized and regulated by the county public school. A committee amendment inserted a new subsection for rural in person public charter school and the definitions. This is to clarify the language allowing the county to authorize the public conversion charter school. The bill passed 70-21 with 8 absent.
SB 197 - Relating to crime of sexual abuse by parent, guardian, custodian, or person in position of trust to child. A committee amendment added HB 4695 in its entirety to the bill which increases penalties for such crimes. The bill passed 97-0.
Com. Sub. for S. B. 502 - Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act. A minor amendment was adopted on the floor and the bill passed 96-0, with 3 absent.
Com. Sub. for S. B. 558 - Relating to school bus safety violations by vehicle operators. A committee amendment and title amendment were both adopted. The committee amendment specifies both violations and penalties. The bill passed 96-0, with 3 absent.
Senate
Floor Session
Third Reading
Today on the Senate floor the following bills were on third reading and up for passage:
The Committee Substitute for HB 4087 to create a WV-Ireland Education Alliance. The bill offers two-year and four-year institutions eligibility for a grant up to $50,000 for student and faculty exchange programs and collaborative educational initiatives with Ireland. The bill passed by a vote of 33-1. Adding humor, the bill is made effective March 17, 2026.
HB 4425 to repeal the provision allowing for students to transfer from one school to another without losing eligibility. The bill repeals the requirement the WVSSAC allow for students to transfer and remain eligible for athletics. The bill passed by a vote of 20-14.
The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 4588 relating to participating in the federal tax credit scholarship program. The bill allows for individuals to receive tax credit for qualified contributions to scholarship granting organizations. The bill passed by a vote of 33-0 with 1 member absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4592 relating to college campus safety. The bill requires higher institutions to provide mapping data with public safety agencies. The Committee Substitute makes it mandatory for all our higher education institutions. The bill passed 33-0 with 1 member absent.
HB 4765 the teacher, school personnel, and state police pay raise. A strike and insert amendment was offered to by the Finance Committee to add market pay enhancements to specific areas of the state and defines how this is calculated. The amendment to the amendment ensures every county gets at least 1% market pay enhancement increase. Calculations are done annually and places a cap at 20%. The strike and insert amendment was amended by Senator Barrett that would limit the enhancement to no more than 5% of the contiguous counties. It would provide that once the enhancement pay was provided, it could not be reduced. The amendment to the amendment was adopted. The amendment as amendment was adopted. HB 4765 as amended passed by a vote of 34-0.
The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 4995 requiring the use of video cameras in certain special education classrooms. The bill requires notice to be given if there was an interruption or the recording and does not allow the video to be used for evaluation purposes. The bill passed 34-0.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4996 relating to bail in cases involving terroristic threats to schools or children. The bill creates mandatory bail conditions for individuals charge with making terrorist threats against a school. The bill passed 34-0.
HB 5048 to ensure virtual instruction for foster students while in temporary placement facilities. The bill provides students with virtual learning through the county the student was last enrolled until placement. The bill passed 34-0.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5212 relating to financial aid for post-secondary education. The bill is a series of strike throughs and creates a new policy for higher education. The bill passed by a vote of 33-0 with 1 member absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5537 repealing obsolete and outdated sections of the Education code. This bill repeals sections of code relating to High School Graduation Improvement Act and professional development. An amendment to the Committee Substitute was offered that would prevent a parent from beginning homeschool if there is a report by a mandatory reported (educators) of abuse. If the report is not substantiated within 10 days, the county must approve the homeschool request (HB 5669, Raylee's Law). The amendment was ruled germane. The amendment to the amendment was adopted. Senator Rucker questioned if the amendment now was germane. It was rules not germane. Senator Weld challenged the chair. The Chair was not sustained so the bill as amended was voted on. The bill passed by a vote of 24-7 with 3 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5438 to modify the foundation to improve instructional programs. A strike and insert amendment was adopted to change the title and expire sections of code relating to the minimum ratio of professional instructional personnel and the penalty for failure to meet the applicable ration. It also requires funding for instructional purposes. The bill passed by a vote of 32-0 with 2 absent.
Second Reading
On second reading with the right to amend were:
Eng. Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for HB 5412: Future Ready Education Act. The bill allows for counties to enter into multi-year contacts up to 5 years for educational materials. It provides that each K-5 teacher providing literacy instruction be trained in the science of reading by the 2027-2028 school year and allows the WVDE may provide accommodations for those counties whose teachers are in the process of obtaining endorsement in the science of reading. The Committee Amendment was adopted. The bill advances to third reading.
Eng. Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for HB 5453 to modify the school aid funding formula. The Committee Substitute provides additional weighting for level two (1.2 funding) and level three (1.3) special education students. These funds must be used for the instruction of the special needs students. The Committee Amendment was adopted. The bill advances to third reading.
Thursday, March 12, 2026- 58th day of the session
Pay Raise Update: HB 4765 is the pay raise bill for teachers, service personnel and state troopers. The bill initially provided for a $1,560 increase for teachers, $87 per month for service professionals, and a 3% pay increase for State Police, as passed by the House. A strike and insert amendment was added in Senate Finance this week to create market enhancement pay beginning July 1, 2027. This development creates a multitude of unanswered questions asked by Education WV and legislators regarding the impact to employees in both affected and unaffected counties. The bill was on second reading today, which is typically amendment stage. The bill was advanced to third reading with the right to amend, which aligns with talk of numerous other possible amendments coming tomorrow on the bill. If the bill is passed tomorrow with any changes from the version previously passed by the House, it will need to go back to the House for action.
Third Reading
Eng. HB 4768: Relating to updating definitions to incorporate federal law changes to qualified higher education expenses for purposes of 529 accounts. The bill passed 34-0.
Committee Substitute for HB 4002 establishes the WV Collaboratory, which facilitates the dissemination of policy and research expertise through WVU, Marshall University, and West Virginia State University. The bill passed 28-6.
HB 4573 Foster Youth Post-Secondary Transition
This bill requires school counselors and graduation coaches to provide guidance and training in post-secondary opportunities, workforce development, housing and aftercare services for students in the foster care system. The bill was amended on 3rd reading, passed 33-0, 1 absent and the Senate requests the House concur.
Committee Substitute for HB 4965 relates to patient-centered treatment flexibility within the Public Employees Insurance Agency. The committee substitute would allow a patient that has received prior approval to receive an alternate treatment without prior approval. It does prohibit reverting back to the previous treatment. The bill passed 33-0, 1 member absent.
Second Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4087 - To create a West Virginia-Ireland Education Alliance. The bill advanced to third reading.
Eng. Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for HB 4588 - Relating to participating in the federal tax credit scholarship program. A Committee amendment was adopted, and the bill advanced to third reading.
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4592 - Relating to college campus safety. A committee amendment was adopted and the bill advanced to third reading.
Eng. HB 4765 - Teacher, School Personnel, and State Police Pay Raise. The bill advanced to third reading with the right to amend.
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 5212 - Relating to financial aid for post-secondary education. A committee amendment was adopted and the bill advanced to third reading.
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 5438 - To modify the foundation allowance to improve instructional programs. – A committee amendment was adopted (see Finance report below) and floor amendment
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 5537 - Repealing obsolete and outdated sections of the Education code. The bill was advanced to third reading with the right to amend.
Finance Committee
Committee Substitute for Committee Substitute for HB 5453 - To modify the school aid funding formula –
Strike and Insert amendment was before the committee.
Oliverio – offered an amendment to the strike and insert amendment, to eliminate some instructional requirements dating back to the 1990s. Deals with a ratios of students to instructional staff. The amendment would expire the two subsections and subsection D.
Amendment adopted
Oliverio also offered an amendment that funding established in this bill for tier 2 and tier 3 special needs students would apply for all public schools including public charter schools. (Data would need to be collected from the public charter schools to apply the levels and funding for such).
The amendment was adopted
Committee Substitute for Committee Substitute as amended is reported to the full senate with recommendation that it do pass. The bill was taken up for immediate consideration on the floor and read a first time.
Committee Substitute for Committee Substitute for HB 5412 -Future Ready Education Act
Senator Grady offered conceptual amendment to clarify and condense the language at the top of page 2 subsection 2.
Motion adopted.
Grady also offered an amendment for language on page 4 to change dates associated with the enrollment and mandated training on Science of Reading for K-5 teachers.
Amendment would change the dates on line 1 to not later than 28-29 school year to allow more time for teachers to obtain the training.
Line 9 now says to enroll in 26–27 year. The amendment would change enrollment required by the 27-28 school year.
Page 4 - endorsement – change the word endorsement to training
Page 5 - change public charter schools “may” choose the training to public charter schools “shall” participate in Science of Reading training.
Amendment adopted
The committee substitute for the committee substitute as amended is reported to full senate with recommendation it do pass. . The bill was taken up for immediate consideration on the floor and read a first time.
House
Floor Session
Third Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 558 - Relating to school bus safety violations by vehicle operators
SB 1064 - Redefining "long-term substitute" as it relates to public school personnel
In a long House Floor session, the following bill was up for passage on third reading:
The Committee Substitute for SB 890 changing certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours. The Committee Substitute strikes the reference to school employment term and removes reference to retirement, so it doesn’t affect existing employment contracts and retirement benefits. It brings the focus to instructional time. It defines “employment term” as 200-day contract and “instructional term” as 954 instructional hours for teachers/aides. It includes the “Leave Teacher Alone” days from SB 802. It changes six two-hour blocks for faculty senate days to three two-hour blocks and clarifies these meetings will occur on “Educator Focus Days”. The bill passed by a vote of 90-2 with 7 members absent. The bill is effective July 1, 2027.
The following bills were on second reading:
SB 63 creating Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act. The bill would allow an established public charter school to expand into a rural school that faces closure or consolidation. It provides for additional funding if necessary for the school. A Comprehensive Strike and Insert Amendment incorporates portions of SB 67 that had been left out. It provides the original intent of the bill to expand the Charter School. It provides for the right of first refusal for unused school building. It provides that a “conversion” charter school be authorized and regulated by the county public school. An amendment was offered to insert a new subsection f for rural in person public charter school and the definitions. This is to clarify the language allowing the county to authorize the public conversion charter school. The House Education amendment was adopted by the floor. The bill advances to third reading.
SB 197 relating to crime of sexual abuse by parent, guardian, custodian, or person in position of trust to a child. The bill adds the language “attempts to procure, authorize, or induce” as a criminal offense. The Committee on the Judiciary amendment for the strike and insert was adopted by the floor. The strike and insert amendment is the language of the similar HB. The bill advances to third reading.
The Committee Substitute for SB 502 the Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act allows a higher education institution to establish a women’s athletic endowment to support women’s collegiate Olympic sports programs and allows the HEPC to establish the endowment trust for the benefit of eligible institutions. Delegate Lewis offered an amendment changed from D1 programs to all programs. The amendment passed. The bill advances to third reading.
The Committee Substitute for SB 558 relating to school bus safety violations by vehicle. The bill adds a section to code as Aggravated passing or failure to stop for a stopped school bus. It defines aggravated passing and establishes fines for various offenses. The Committee on the Judiciary amendment was clarifying the penalties was adopted. The bill now advances to third reading.
The Committee Substitute for SB 899 permitting certain teachers to be certified to work as school principals. The WVDE currently has a program like this for principals seeking a Superintendent's certification. The WVDE would establish a program similar that would certify teachers with 15 years' experience and good evaluations with this yearlong training. With no amendments the bill advances to third reading.
SB 1064 redefining “long-term substitute” as it relates to public school personnel. SB 1064 redefining “long term substitute” as it relates to public school personnel. The bill clarifies while the long-term substitute could be in the position for the year, however the position must be posted at the beginning and mid-year to see if any certified person may apply. The bill advances to third reading with an amendment pending.
Wednesday, March 11, 2026 – 57th Day of Session
Senate
Floor Session
Third Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 5089 relates to public school acceptance of student transcripts or other credentials. The bill would require public schools to accept transcripts or other academic records from public charter schools, private schools, homeschool programs, microschools or HOPE Scholarship programs when placing students in public schools. Each public school shall record the class, grade, and source on the student’s public-school transcript. A report including student demographics shall be made to the Legislative Oversight Committee on Education Accountability (LOCEA) of students who re-enroll into WV public schools and what educational program they previously attended. The bill passed 32-2-0.
Eng. HB 5354 relates to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education. The bill would update rules for state higher education agencies. The state would authorize several rules from the WV Higher Education Policy Commission, related to the Mental Health Loan Repayment Program and an Administrative Exemption rule. These programs are intended to help support mental health professionals and address administrative policies within the state’s higher ed system. The bill passed 34-0, and was made effective from passage.
Second Reading
Eng. HB 4768: Relating to updating definitions to incorporate federal law changes to qualified higher education expenses for purposes of 529 accounts. The bill advanced to third reading.
Committee Substitute for HB 4002 establishes the WV Collaboratory, which facilitates the dissemination of policy and research expertise through WVU, Marshall University, and West Virginia State University. The bill was advanced to third reading.
HB 4573 Foster Youth Post-Secondary Transition
This bill requires school counselors and graduation coaches to provide guidance and training in post-secondary opportunities, workforce development, housing and aftercare services for students in the foster care system. The bill was amended with a strike and insert and advanced to third reading.
Committee Substitute for HB 4965 relates to patient-centered treatment flexibility within the Public Employees Insurance Agency. The committee substitute would allow a patient that has received prior approval to receive an alternate treatment without prior approval. It does prohibit reverting back to the previous treatment. The bill advanced to third reading.
First Reading
HB 4656 addresses chronic absenteeism. This bill creates a Student Support Specialist in each county to work with students with chronic absenteeism. The bill also looks at preventative measures for intervention rather than punitive measures. The bill was taken up for immediate consideration, read a first time and referred back to the Education Committee.
Eng. HB 4425 repeals code allowing for students to transfer from one school to another without losing eligibility. This bill repeals the open transfer rule adopted 3 years ago. The bill was advanced to second reading.
HB 4995 to require the use of video cameras in certain special education classrooms was taken up for immediate consideration and read a first time, and referred back to the Judiciary Committee.
Committee Meetings
Education
Com. Sub. for HB 5537 repeals obsolete and outdated sections of the education code. The bill
HB 4656: Relating to chronic absenteeism (was immediately considered on floor, read a first time and referred back to this committee today.)
HB 5321: To guarantee timely educational evaluations and continuity of services for children entering foster care
Select Committee on School Choice
There were two bills on today’s agenda:
HB4588 - Relating to participating in the federal tax credit scholarship program. Passed with no amendments and was sent to the full Senate.
HB5048 - To ensure virtual instruction for foster students while in temporary placement facilities. An amendment was offered that had been discussed and agreed upon with the House. The amendment requires WVDE training for the child and parent on virtual instruction. It also provides if there is not a virtual school operated by the county then the instruction will be delivered through the state’s virtual charter school. Amended bill passed and was sent to the full Senate.
Both bills were reported to the floor during the evening session, taken up for immediate consideration and read a first time.
Banking and Insurance
Eng. HB 5463: Relating to Decreasing Board of Education Limits. The bill did not pass committee.
Finance
Com. Sub. for HB 5438: To modify the foundation allowance to improve instructional programs. The bill, as amended, was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
Com. Sub. for HB 4087: To create a West Virginia-Ireland Education Alliance. The com sub was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
Judiciary
HB 4995 to require the use of video cameras in certain special education classrooms was taken up for immediate consideration and read a first time, and referred back to the Judiciary Committee. The bill was first one up when Judiciary came back this evening, and passed without amendments or discussion.
House
Floor Session
Third Reading
Today on the House Floor the following bills were on third reading:
The Committee Substitute for SB 402 The Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act. The bill allows for a tax credit for certain apprentice training programs and allows the creation of micro-credentialing systems in school systems. The Committee on Finance amended the bill by striking out all the benefits except for the micro-credentialing. The Committee Substitute for SB 402 as amended passed by a vote of 95-0 with 4 members absent .
The Committee Substitute for SB 473 creating felony offense of using electronic device to threaten violence. The bill creates the definition for "crime of violence" and adds electronic device and gaming devise to the definitions. The bill sets forth the penalty for using an electronic communication device with the intent to threaten to commit any crime of violence. Action on the bill was postponed one day.
The Committee Substitute for SB 890 changing certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours. The Committee Substitute strikes the reference to school employment term and removes reference to retirement, so it doesn’t affect existing employment contracts and retirement benefits. It brings the focus to instructional time. It defines “employment term” as 200-day contract and “instructional term” as 954 instructional hours for teachers/aides. It includes the “Leave Teacher Alone” days from SB 802. It changes six two-hour blocks for faculty senate days to three two-hour blocks and clarifies these meetings will occur on “Educator Focus Days”. Action on this bill was postponed one day.
Second Reading
On second reading:
The Committee Substitute for SB 899 permitting certain teachers to be certified to work as school principals. The WVDE currently has a program like this for principals seeking a Superintendent's certification. The WVDE would establish a program similar that would certify teachers with 15 years' experience and good evaluations with this yearlong training. Action on this bill was postponed.
First Reading
On First Reading:
A motion to dispense the second reference to the Committee on Finance and read SB 63 a first time was adopted. SB 63 creating Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act. The bill would allow an established public charter school to expand into a rural school that faces closure or consolidation. It provides for additional funding if necessary for the school. A Comprehensive Strike and Insert Amendment incorporates portions of SB 67 that had been left out. It provides the original intent of the bill to expand the Charter School. It provides for the right of first refusal for unused school building. It provides that a “conversion” charter school be authorized and regulated by the county public school. An amendment was offered to insert a new subsection f for rural in person public charter school and the definitions. This is to clarify the language allowing the county to authorize the public conversion charter school. The bill advances to second reading.
A motion to dispense the second reference to the Committee on Finance and read SB 502 a first time was adopted. The Committee Substitute for SB 502 the Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act allows a higher education institution to establish a women’s athletic endowment to support women’s collegiate Olympic sports programs and allows the HEPC to establish the endowment trust for the benefit of eligible institutions. The bill advances to second reading.
The Committee Substitute for SB 558 relating to school bus safety violations by vehicle. The bill adds a section to code as Aggravated passing or failure to stop for a stopped school bus. It defines aggravated passing and establishes fines for various offenses. The bill advances to second reading.
SB 1064 redefining “long-term substitute” as it relates to public school personnel. SB 1064 redefining “long term substitute” as it relates to public school personnel. The bill clarifies while the long-term substitute could be in the position for the year, the position must be posted at the beginning and mid-year to see if any certified person may apply. The bill advances to second reading.
Committee Meetings
Judiciary
SB197 - Relating to crime of sexual abuse by parent, guardian, custodian, or person in position of trust to child. The committee amended in HB 4695 in its entirety to the bill which increases penalties for such crimes. The bill passed the committee and moves to the full House for consideration.
SB 651 - Relating to sale of certain properties subject to delinquent tax liens. After testimony from a representative from the WVDE detailing some negative financial consequences that this would have on county boards of education, the bill died in committee.
Education
Com. Sub. for S. B. 1077, Requiring vocational education agriculture programs be offered to all students.
Tuesday, March 10, 2026- Day 56 of the Session
Senate
Morning Floor Session
Third Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4395 relates to investigations of allegations of child safety violations for school personnel. The bill would require school systems in WV to investigate allegations that a school employee has jeopardized the health, safety, or welfare of a student even if the employee resigns or transfers before the investigation is completed. Title amendment was adopted. The bill passed by a vote of 34-0.
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4999 relates to crimes against athletic officials. The bill would strengthen protections for athletic officials and participants and establishes penalties for assault or battery against them. It specifies that officials, referees, coaches, school administrators, and team members are covered. Fines, jail, bans from events, treatment of violations as trespassing are set. Players are exempt from actions within the rules of the game. The bill passed by a vote of 34-0.
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 5012 provides for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. The Committee Substitute only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students. However, no transfer could be made for arbitrary, capricious, or retaliatory reasons. The committee amendment provides that the affected employee could be moved into a vacant long term substitute position, if the employee is certified, and ensures that the transfer cannot take place until the following year. It also would not prevent the employee from bidding on other positions. Title amendment adopted. The bill passed by a vote of 33-1.
Eng. HB 5686 Relating to the timing of payments of annually required deposits into an eligible recipient’s HOPE Scholarship account - The bill would require the payments into recipients’ accounts will be made quarterly instead of biannually. Title amendment was withdrawn. The bill passed by a vote of 34-0.
Second Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 5089 Relating to public school acceptance of student transcripts or other credentials
The bill would require public schools to accept transcripts or other academic records from public charter schools, private schools, homeschool programs, microschools or HOPE Scholarship programs when placing students in public schools. Each public school shall record the class, grade, and source on the student’s public-school transcript. A report including student demographics shall be made to the Legislative Oversight Committee on Education Accountability (LOCEA) of students who re-enroll into WV public schools and what educational program they previously attended. The bill advanced to third reading.
Eng. HB 5354 Relating to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education
The bill would update rules for state higher education agencies. The state would authorize several rules from the WV Higher Education Policy Commission, related to the Mental Health Loan Repayment Program and an Administrative Exemption rule. These programs are intended to help support mental health professionals and address administrative policies within the state’s higher ed system. The bill advanced to third reading.
First Reading
Eng. HB 4768: Relating to updating definitions to incorporate federal law changes to qualified higher education expenses for purposes of 529 accounts. The bill adds public schools to the definition of eligible educational institutions in which the money may be used. The bill advanced to second reading.
Evening Floor Session
Third Reading
SB 155 creating Adjunct Teaching Permit. A house amendment relating to a background check was adopted. The bill passed as amended 33-1 with 1 absent.
Reported, First Reading
The following bills were reported, given immediate consideration, on First Reading and advanced to second reading:
HB 4002 Establishing the WV Collaboratory
HB 4573 Foster Youth Post-Secondary Transition Awareness Act
HB 4425 To Repeal the provision allowing for students to transfer from one school to another without losing eligibility
HB 4965 Relating to patient-centered treatment flexibility within PEIA
Education
Committee Substitute for HB 4002 establishes the WV Collaboratory, which facilitates the dissemination of policy and research expertise through WVU, Marshall University, and West Virginia State University. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
HB 4573 Foster Youth Post-Secondary Transition
This bill requires school counselors and graduation coaches to provide guidance and training in post-secondary opportunities, workforce development, housing and aftercare services for students in the foster care system. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
HB 4425 repeals code allowing for students to transfer from one school to another without losing eligibility. This bill repeals the open transfer rule adopted 3 years ago. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
Health and Human Resources
Committee Substitute for HB 4965 relates to patient-centered treatment flexibility within the Public Employees Insurance Agency. The committee substitute would allow a patient that has received prior approval to receive an alternate treatment without prior approval. It does prohibit reverting back to the previous treatment. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
Finance
HB 4765: Teacher, School Personnel, and State Police Raise. The bill, as amended, was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass. The strike and insert amendment includes a 3% pay raise beginning in 2026 and adds a salary enhancement for certain locations beginning in 2027. At the time of this report, we are waiting to review more details of the amendment.
House
Floor Session
Second Reading
On the House Floor the following bills were on second reading:
The Committee Substitute for SB 402 The Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act. The bill allows for a tax credit for certain apprentice training programs and allows the creation of micro-credentialing systems in school systems. The Committee on Finance moved to amend the bill by strikes out all of the benefits except for the micro-credentialing. The amendment passes and the bill advances to third reading.
The Committee Substitute for SB 473 creating felony offense of using electronic device to threaten violence. The bill creates the definition for "crime of violence" and adds electronic device and gaming devise to the definitions. The bill sets forth the penalty for using an electronic communication device with the intent to threaten to commit any crime of violence. The Committee on the Judiciary moved to amend the bill by making adjustments to the code. The amendment passed and the bill advances to third reading.
The Committee Substitute for SB 890 changing certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours. The Committee Substitute strikes the reference to school employment term and removes reference to retirement, so it doesn’t affect existing employment contracts and retirement benefits. It brings the focus to instructional time. It defines “employment term” as 200-day contract and “instructional term” as 954 instructional hours for teachers/aides. It includes the “Leave Teacher Alone” days from SB 802. It changes six two-hour blocks for faculty senate days to three two-hour blocks and clarifies these meetings will occur on “Educator Focus Days”. The bill advances to third reading.
Judiciary Committee
Committee Hearing
Today in House Judiciary SB 197 relating to crime of sexual abuse by parent, guardian, custodian, or person in position of trust to a child. The bill adds "attempts to procure, authorize, or induce" another person to engage in or stymie to engage in sexual exploitation etc. The bill criminalizes the attempt. The bill advances to the markup and passage stage of the committee.
Education Committee
Markup and Passage
In House Education the following bills were up for markup and passage:
SB 63 creating Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act. The bill would allow an established public charter school to expand into a rural school that faces closure or consolidation. It provides for additional funding if necessary for the school. A Comprehensive Strike and Insert Amendment was adopted to incorporate portions of SB 67 that had been left out. It provides the original intent of the bill to expand the Charter School. It provides for the right of first refusal for unused school building. It provides that a “conversion” charter school be authorized and regulated by the county public school. An amendment was offered to insert a new subsection f for rural in person public charter school and the definitions. This is to clarify the language allowing the county to authorize the public conversion charter school. The amendment was adopted. The motion to report SB 63 as amended to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the Committee on Finance was adopted.
The Committee Substitute for SB 899 permitting certain teachers to be certified to work as school principals. The bill would allow teachers with 15 years’ experience and good evaluations to take a one-year training established by the WVDE to become certified as a principal at the level of their instructional experience. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for SB 899 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
Two bills were on the Committee Hearing stage:
SB 502 the Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act. The proposed Committee Substitute allows a higher education institution to establish a women’s athletic endowment to support women’s collegiate Olympic sports programs and allows the HEPC to establish the endowment trust for the benefit of eligible institutions. The bill advances to the markup and passage stage for the Committee on Education. Delegate Pushkin moved to suspend the rules to advance the bill to markup and passage immediately. The motion passed. The bill was taken up for markup and passage. The motion to report SB 502 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the Committee on Finance was adopted. The motion was made to request the chairs to dispense with the second committee reference to Finance. The motion passed.
The Committee Substitute for SB 1077 requiring vocational education agriculture programs to be offered to all students. The bill only allows the program be eliminated if it is the lowest program enrollment wise. The bill now advances to markup and discussion.
Monday, March 9, 2026 – 55th Day of Session
Senate
Floor Session
Third Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4798 Permitting teachers to wear a “mobile alert button” for emergency situations, to be known as “Alyssa’s Law”. Senator Grady, Chair, Senate Education, commented that this goes along with the school mapping bill passed last year. This is not an unfunded mandate. The bill sets up a fund and allows donations to be made to the fund. The bill passed 34-0.
Eng. HB 5110 Amend section providing for waiver of tuition and fees for senior citizens auditing certain college classes – The bill would change age from 65 to 60 and reduce tuition fees for certain situations.
The bill passed 34-0.
Second Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4395 Relating to investigations of allegations of child safety violations for school personnel. Advanced to Third Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4999 Relating to crimes against athletic officials – Advanced to Third Reading
An amendment by Judiciary Committee to make the bill clear was adopted.
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 5012 Providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs
The Committee Substitute only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students. However, no transfer could be made for arbitrary, capricious, or retaliatory reasons. The committee amendment provides that the affected employee could be moved into a vacant long term substitute position, if the employee is certified, and ensures that a transfer cannot take place until the following year. It also would not prevent the employee from bidding on for other positions. The bill advanced to Third Reading.
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 5089 Relating to public school acceptance of student transcripts or other credentials
The bill advanced to Third Reading.
Eng. HB 5354 Relating to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education – The bill was laid over.
Eng. HB 5686 Relating to the timing of payments of annually required deposits into an eligible recipient’s HOPE Scholarship account (Com. amen. and title amendment pending). Senator Barrett, Chair, Finance Committee, withdrew an amendment striking out everything after the enacting clause and moved to amend to correct a typo, but keep the bill the same as it came over from the House.
The bill advanced to Third Reading.
There were no bills on First Reading for the morning Floor Session.
Committee Meetings
Education
HB 5438 To modify the foundation allowance to improve instructional programs
The bill would improve instructional programs. The Committee Substitute provides the State Dept of Education must implement a uniform budgeting system, the Governor shall provide in each budget the appropriation for the Third Grade Success Act and allows the State DoE and county BoE to set aside funds to be used for trainings of programs.
Senator Tarr offered a successful amendment to ensure that the teacher leader program is preserved. The amendment to an amendment (technical ) would strike lines 125-127 from the bill, thus removing language that county boards may utilize up to 50% of the allocation for teacher and leader induction for funding projects identified in the Safe School Fund requests.
The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass, as amended, but first under the original double reference to the committee on Finance.
HB 4087 To create a West Virginia-Ireland Education Alliance
The bill will create $50,000 grant opportunities for 2-year and 4-year institutions. The bill passed and the bill was made effective on March 17, 2026. The bill was reported to the full senate with the recommendation that it do pass, but first under the original double committee reference, to the committee on Finance.
HB 5169 Relating to exempting child-care programs operated by a county board of education exclusively for the children of its employees from certain licensing requirements. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass, but first under the original double reference to the committee of Finance.
HB 5453 To modify the school aid funding formula
The Committee Substitute would state beginning for the school year 2029-2030, all county BOEs shall be funded by a block grant in the amount of $6,100 per student. This allows the county to use the money as they choose. The bill also provides additional funding for students with special needs using a tier system. School systems may also request additions funding for special cases through the Supplemental School Aid Fund to be established. The committee amended the bill to provide the funding for special education Tiers II & III be in effect sooner for school year 27-28, instead of 29-30. Senator Garcia offered an amendment to the amendment to move the funding to start sooner in the coming fiscal year. His proposed amendment was defeated, 6-5. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass, as amended, but first under the original double committee reference to the committee on Finance.
HB 5511 To allow money to be paid to county board of education employees’ estates for accrued and unused leave if they pass away before retirement. The bill would money to be paid to county BOE employees' estates for accrued and unused leave if they pass away before retirement. This would provide a lump sum not to exceed $6,000 to the estate for unused leave days. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass but first under the original double committee reference to the committee on Finance.
Finance
HB 4768 relating to updating definitions to incorporate federal law changes to qualified higher education expenses for purposes of 529 accounts. This bill adds public schools to the definition of eligible educational institutions in which the money may be used. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
Committee Substitute for HB 5212-Relating to financial aid for post-secondary students
The bill modifies several grant programs, the Promise Scholarship and makes changes to the WV Invest Program. The bill was reported to the full senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
House
Floor Session
Third Reading
Today on third reading in the House Floor session:
SB 155 relating to adjunct teaching permits. The bill allows the State DoE to create an adjunct teacher permit. The permit is good for one year. The county BoE may enter into a contract with an adjunct teacher for a specified amount of time and pay. The bill was amended on second reading to ensure adjunct teachers are reviewed annually and the position is posted annually. The bill passed by a vote of 89-6 with 4 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for SB 694 removing county residency requirement for county superintendent of schools. This bill modifies the county residency requirement from code by removing the requirement but allows the county to add the residency requirement to the contract. The bill passed by a vote of 72-24 with 3 members absent.
Second Reading
There were no bills on Second reading.
First Reading
Reported from the Education Committee and read a first time was The Committee Substitute for SB 890 changing certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours. The Committee Substitute make strikes the reference to school employment term and removes reference to retirement, so it doesn’t affect existing employment contracts and retirement benefits. It brings the focus to instructional time. It defines “employment term” as 200-day contract and “instructional term” as 954 instructional hours for teachers/aides. It includes the “Leave Teacher Alone” days from SB 802. It changes six two-hour blocks for faculty senate days to three two-hour blocks and clarifies these meetings will occur on “Educator Focus Days”. The bill advances to second reading.
No education bills on First and Second Reading today.
Committee Meetings
Markup and Passage
The following bills were up for markup and passage in House Education:
SB 913 removing the annual report requirement for WV Research Trust Fund. The bill no longer requires the annual report since the funds expired in 2013. The motion to report SB 913 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
SB 1064 redefining “long term substitute” as it relates to public school personnel. A Strike and Insert Amendment was offered to clarify while the long-term substitute could be in the position for the year, the position must be posted at the beginning and mid-year to see if any certified person may apply. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for SB 1064 as amended to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
Hearing Stage
On the Committee Hearing stage was SB 67 relating to public charter schools. The bill would allow a charter school student to participate in extracurricular athletic or academic activities in the public school. It requires the school district to track a student how disenrolls from a public charter school. It clarifies the governing board of a conversion public charter school. The bill also gives a public charter school the ability to lease or purchase an unused facility or vacant property of the public school by granting the Charter school a right of first refusal. Education WV Co-President Dale Lee spoke with concerns about the bill including the right of first refusal, the re-enrolling of a charter student to the public school, and the money allotted to the charter school for retirement and insurance. The bill now advances to the markup and passage stage of the Education Committee.
Daily Updates
Friday, March 6, 2026 – 52nd Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Second Reading
HB 4798: Alyssa’s Law. The bill would authorize wearable panic alert systems by school personnel in WV schools. The devices would allow school personnel to directly contact 911 and trigger campus-wide lockdown notifications during emergencies, contingent upon available funding. Implementation rules would be set by the state. The bill also allows counties to distribute devices and requires annual training and coordination with law enforcement. The bill creates a school safety fund for equipment costs and sunsets in 2029. In addition to technical changes the bill was amended counties to apply to the Department of Homeland Security for funding. The bill advanced to third reading, as amended.
HB 4999: Relating to crimes against athletic officials. The bill would strengthen protections for athletic officials and participants and establishes penalties for assault or battery against them. It specifies that officials, referees, coaches, school administrators, and team members are covered. Fines, jail, bans from events, treatment of violations as trespassing are set. Players are exempt from actions within the rules of the game. The bill was laid over.
HB 5110 to amend the code section providing for waiver of tuition and fees for senior citizens auditing certain college classes. This bill changes the age from 65 to 60 for senior citizens to audit college classes. The bill advanced to third reading.
First Reading
HB 4395: Relating to investigations of allegations of child safety violations for school personnel. The bill would require school systems in WV to investigate allegations that a school employee has jeopardized the health, safety, or welfare of a student even if the employee resigns or transfers before the investigation is completed. The bill advanced to second reading.
HB 5012: Providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. The Committee Substitute for House Bill 5012 providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. The Committee Substitute only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students. However, no transfer could be made for arbitrary, capricious, or retaliatory reasons. Senator Oliverio proposed an amendment that would ensure that a transfer cannot take place until the following year to ensure that the employee can apply for another position. The bill advanced to second reading.
HB 5089: Relating to public school acceptance of student transcripts and other credentials. The bill would require public schools to accept transcripts or other academic records from public charter schools, private schools, homeschool programs, microschools or HOPE Scholarship programs when placing students in public schools. Each public school shall record the class, grade, and source on the student’s public-school transcript. A report including student demographics shall be made to the Legislative Oversight Committee on Education Accountability (LOCEA) of students who re-enroll into WV public schools and what educational program they previously attended. The bill advanced to second reading.
HB 5354: Relating to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education. The bill would update rules for state higher education agencies. The state would authorize several rules from the WV Higher Education Policy Commission, related to the Mental Health Loan Repayment Program and an Administrative Exemption rule. These programs are intended to help support mental health professionals and address administrative policies within the state’s higher ed system. The bill advanced to second reading.
*HB 5686: Relating to the timing of payments of annually required deposits into an eligible recipient’s HOPE Scholarship Account. The Bill was received from Senate Education today and was given immediate consideration. Read first time and advanced to second reading.
Senate Education Committee
*HB 5686: Relating to the timing of payments of annually required deposits into an eligible recipient’s HOPE Scholarship Account. There was a strike and insert amendment, adding a section to the bill. The payments into recipients’ accounts will be made quarterly instead of biannually. The bill, as amended, was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass. A title amendment was also adopted.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Second Reading
Today on the House Floor the following bills were on second reading:
SB 155 relating to adjunct teaching permits. The bill allows the State DoE to create an adjunct teacher permit. The permit is good for one year. The county BoE may enter into a contract with an adjunct teacher for a specified amount of time and pay. The Committee on Education amended offered to ensure adjunct teachers are reviewed annually and the position is posted annually. The primary amendment was adopted. The bill advances to third reading.
The Committee Substitute for SB 694 removing county residency requirement for county superintendent of schools. This bill removes the county residency requirement from code but allows the county to add the residency requirement to the contract. No amendments were offered. The bill advances to third reading.
Committee Meetings
Education
Markup and Passage
In House Education, the following bills were up for markup and passage:
SB 745 relating to requirements for school nutrition programs. A Committee Substitute was adopted that took the replace subsection (c) to align added sugar standards with federal nutrition standards of no more than 10%. It also required posting by the school district instead of the individual school. A motion was made to table the motion. The motion to table the bill was adopted.
The Committee Substitute for SB 890 changing certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours. A committee substitute was adopted. The Committee Substitute make substantial changes to the bill. It strikes the reference to school employment term and removes reference to retirement, so it doesn’t affect existing employment contracts and retirement benefits. It brings the focus to instructional time. It defines “employment term” as 200-day contract and “instructional term” as 954 instructional hours for teachers/aides. It includes the “Leave Teacher Alone” days from SB 802. It changes six two-hour blocks for faculty senate days to three two-hour blocks and clarifies these meetings will occur on “Educator Focus Days.”
On the Committee Hearing stage:
SB 63 creating Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act. The bill would allow an established public charter school to expand into a rural school that faces closure or consolidation. It provides for additional funding if necessary for the school. Education WV Co-President spoke about the concerns with the bill. Rather than allowing a Charter school to expand, we should look at providing the necessary funding for counties.
SB 778 relating to eligibility for homebound services for exceptional children. The bill adds nurse practitioner or certified physician’s assistant as those qualified to determine the homebound.
The Committee Substitute for SB 804 removing physical education requirements for certain middle and high school athletes. Education WV Co-President Lee spoke about the waiver ability of high school student/athletes currently and was to ensure the middle school students could not waive the health component if the school combined PE and Health.
The Committee Substitute for SB 899 permitting certain teachers to be certified to work as school principals. It was explained the DoE currently has a program like this for principals seeking a Superintendent's certification. Education WV Co-President Lee spoke about the need for this certification to be for the grade level the teacher has experience.
These bills now advance for markup and discussion.
Thursday, March 5, 2026 – 51st Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
The Senate advanced SB 250, the Budget Bill, that was amended and reported to the House of Delegates for consideration.
First Reading
HB 4798: Alyssa’s Law. Advanced to second reading. The bill would authorize wearable panic alert systems by school personnel in WV schools. The devices would allow school personnel to directly contact 911 and trigger campus-wide lockdown notifications during emergencies, contingent upon available funding. Implementation rules would be set by the state. The bill also allows counties to distribute devices and requires annual training and coordination with law enforcement. The bill creates a school safety fund for equipment costs and sunsets in 2029.
HB 4999: Relating to crimes against athletic officials. Advanced to second reading. The bill would strengthen protections for athletic officials and participants and establishes penalties for assault or battery against them. It specifies that officials, referees, coaches, school administrators, and team members are covered. Fines, jail, bans from events, treatment of violations as trespassing are set. Players are exempt from actions within the rules of the game.
Eng. HB 5110: Amend section providing for waiver of tuition and fees for senior citizens auditing certain college classes. Advanced to second reading.
Committee Meetings
Education
HB 4395: Relating to investigations of allegations of child safety violations for school personnel. The bill would require school systems in WV to investigate allegations that a school employee has jeopardized the health, safety, or welfare of a student even if the employee resigns or transfers before the investigation is completed. The bill reported to the full Senate with a recommendation that it do pass.
HB 4592: Relating to college campus safety. The bill would allow state colleges and universities to create detailed campus safety maps to help fist responders during emergencies. The bill was reported to the full Senate with recommendation that it do pass, but first under the original double reference, sent to the Finance Committee.
HB 5012: Providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. The Committee Substitute for House Bill 5012 providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. The Committee Substitute only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students. However, no transfer could be made for arbitrary, capricious, or retaliatory reasons. Senator Oliverio proposed an amendment that would ensure that a transfer cannot take place until the following year to ensure that the employee can apply for another position. The bill as amended was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
HB 5089: Relating to public school acceptance of student transcripts and other credentials. The bill would require public schools to accept transcripts or other academic records from public charter schools, private schools, homeschool programs, microschools or HOPE Scholarship programs when placing students in public schools. Each public school shall record the class, grade, and source on the student’s public-school transcript. A report including student demographics shall be made to the Legislative Oversight Committee on Education Accountability (LOCEA) of students who re-enroll into WV public schools and what educational program they previously attended. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
HB 5354: Relating to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education. The bill would update rules for state higher education agencies. The state would authorize several rules from the WV Higher Education Policy Commission, related to the Mental Health Loan Repayment Program and an Administrative Exemption rule. These programs are intended to help support mental health professionals and address administrative policies within the state’s higher ed system. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
HB 5537 Repealing obsolete and outdated sections of the Education code. The committee chair announced that the bill was pulled from the agenda today.
HOUSE
Floor Session
First Reading
Today on the House Floor the following bills were on first reading:
SB 155 relating to adjunct teaching permits. The bill allows the State DoE to create an adjunct teacher permit. The permit is good for one year. The county BoE may enter into a contract with an adjunct teacher for a specified amount of time and pay.
The Committee Substitute for SB 694 removing county residency requirement for county superintendent of schools. This bill removes the county residency requirement from code but allows the county to add the residency requirement to the contract.
These bills now advance to second reading.
Committee Meetings
Education
On the Committee Hearing stage in House Education:
The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for SB 745 relating to requirements for school nutrition. The bill adds a list of food additives that are not permitted as an added ingredient in any meal served in the school nutrition program. The bill allows for a waiver under certain circumstances.
SB 913 removing the annual report requirement for WV Research Trust Fund.
SB 1064 redefining "long-term substitute" as it relates to public school personnel. The bill changes the definition of long-term substitute from "to extend for at least thirty consecutive days" to "be a permanent position" and is listed in the job posting as over thirty days.
These bills now advance to the markup and discussion stage of the committee.
Wednesday, March 4, 2026 – 50th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 67: Relating to public charter schools. PASSED 32-1-0 (Garcia nay, Hart absent). The focus of the bill is to establish a right of first refusal to public charter schools to use or obtain unused public-school buildings. It also includes clarification of the process for nonpublic school students to transition to public schools as well as public charter school athletes’ participation in non-charter public school activities.
Also included in the bill, if a public charter school participates in PEIA the WVDE shall allocate funding for such in the same manner as in which allocations are provided to public county boards at 99% of allocation. Effective July 1, 2026, if the public charter school does not participate in PEIA, funding shall be made directly to the public charter school in the same manner as districts participating in PEIA at 50% of allocation. Effective July 1, 2027, the allocation increases to 99% of allocation, same as those districts participating in PEIA.
The bill passed the full Senate and was sent to the House of Delegates for consideration.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
In a long floor session for cross over day, more than 50 bills were on third reading. The following education related bills were:
The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 4588 relating to participating in the federal tax credit scholarship program. This allows individuals to make qualified contributions to scholarship granting organizations. The bill passed by a vote of 93-0 with 6 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4965 relating to patient-centered treatment flexibility within PEIA. The Committee Substitute would allow a patient that has received prior approval to receive an alternate treatment without prior approval. It does prohibit going back to the previous treatment. The bill passed by a vote of 93-0 with 6 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 4995 requiring the use of video cameras in certain special education classrooms. The bill prohibits using the video for evaluation purposes and requires the school to notify parents of a break in the video. The bill passed by a vote of 93-0 with 6 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5438 to modify the foundation allowance to improve instructional programs. The Committee Substitute provides the State DoE must implement a uniform budgeting system, the Governor shall provide in each budget the appropriation for the Third Grade Success Act and allows the State DoE and county BoE to set aside funds to be used for trainings of programs. The bill passed by a vote of 92-0 with 7 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 5453 to modify the school aid funding formula. The Committee Substitute would state beginning for the school year 2029-2030, all county BoEs shall be funded by a block grant in the amount of $6,100 per student. The bill also provides additional funding for students with special needs using a tier system. School systems may also request additions funding for special cases through the Supplemental School Aid Fund to be established. The bill advanced to third reading with the general right to amend. An amendment was offered by Delegate Howell to add "The foundation allowance for any fiscal year may not be less than the foundation allowance for than the immediate preceding fiscal year." This amendment would ensure that no county will lose funding from one year to the next because of the new funding formula. The motion passed. An amendment was offered by Delegate Pushkin that would make the funding of $6,500 per student enrolled effective for the 2027-2028 school year keeping the tiered funding for special needs students. The motion failed. The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 5453 passed by a vote of 89-2 with 8 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5480 relating to establishing the WV Youth Summer Employment and Career Readiness Program. This bill provides paid summer employment opportunities for students. The bill was amended to apply equally to all students who want a summer job including priority identified youth. The bill passed by a vote of 87-0 with 12 members absent.
HB 5511 to allow money to be paid to county BoE employees' estates for accrued and unused leave if they pass away before retirement. This would provide a lump sum not to exceed $6,000 to the estate for unused leave days. The bill passed by a vote of 87-0 with 12 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5587 to authorize cameras in school buses to send red light violators footage directly to the applicable law enforcement agency for ticketing and enforcement. This bill allows the footage to be sent to law enforcement. The bill passed by a vote of 89-1 with 9 members absent.
HB 5686 relating to the timing of payments of annually required deposit into an eligible recipients HOPE Scholarship account. This bill originated in the House Finance Committee and now changes the payment disbursements from twice a year to 4 times a year. The bill passed by a vote of 91-1 with 7 members absent.
Second Reading
No education bills on second reading today.
First Reading
On First Reading the Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 5412 the Future Ready Education Act. The motion was made that the constitutional rule regarding it be read on three separate days was adopted. The bill was read a second and third time. An amendment was offered to correct a date that was in the bill wrong. The amendment passed. The bill as amended allows entities to enter into contracts for more than one year. The bill also funds the training for the Third Grade Success Act. The bill passed by a vote of 90-2 with 7 members absent.
Also on First Reading was the Committee Substitute for HB 5669 prohibiting the home schooling of children in certain circumstances. A motion was made to advance the bill to second and third reading. The motion did not receive the required vote to suspend the rules and advanced to second reading. Since this is crossover day, the bill did not meet the timelines for crossover.
Tuesday, March 3, 2026 – 49th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 502, the Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act, PASSED 33-0-1, effective July 1, 2026. The purpose of this bill is to protect and sustain women’s collegiate Olympic sports programs through permanent endowment funding; reward verified institutional efficiencies and includes incentives for private investment through targeted tax credits.
Eng. Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 657, creating Cohen Craddock Student Athlete Safety Act, PASSED 32-2, with Rucker and Rose voting against the bill, effective July 1, 2026. This bill would require the WVBOE to promulgate a rule in conjunction with the WV Board of Physical Therapy, governing concussion protocol, training on the prevention of concussions, and the development of the Concussion Education, Prevention Plan. The bill is also intended to address the various risks of injuries in addition to concussions that could occur with student athletes. It allows schools and counties to require supplemental safety protection devices if the county provides the equipment. It also establishes the Cohen Craddock Memorial Grant Fund.
Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 929, relating to state board intervention into county school systems, EFFECTIVE FROM PASSAGE, 34-0. The bill defines maladministration and adds grounds to which the WVBOE can declare an intervention into a county school system, requiring the intervention to end within 36 months or a report to LOCEA will be required. If a loan is administered to the county school system, it must be repaid within 36 months, or the intervention will continue until the loan is repaid. The bill is retroactive.
These bills passed the full Senate and were sent to the House of Delegates for consideration.
Second Reading
Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 67, relating to public charter schools – Engrossed & Advanced. The main focus of the bill is to establish a right of first refusal to public charter schools to use or obtain unused public-school buildings. It also includes clarification of the process for nonpublic school students to transition to public schools as well as public charter school athletes’ participation in non-charter public school activities.
First Reading – None
Committee Meetings
Education
HB 4798: Alyssa’s Law – The bill would authorize wearable panic alert systems by school personnel in WV schools. The devices would allow school personnel to directly contact 911 and trigger campus-wide lockdown notifications during emergencies, contingent upon available funding.
Implementation rules would be set by the state. The bill also allows counties to distribute devices and requires annual training and coordination with law enforcement. The bill creates a school safety fund for equipment costs and sunsets in 2029. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
HB 5212: Relating to financial aid for a post-secondary education. The bill would modernize financial aid programs, streamline eligibility and expand support for part-time and work-force focused students. It also clarifies rules for loans, scholarships and repayment requirements. The bill would create a more coordinated system for students and institutions across WV. The bill was reported to the full Senate with a recommendation that it do pass but first under the original double reference to the committee on Finance.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Today on the House Floor the following bills were on third reading and up for passage:
HB 4425 to repeal the provision allowing for students to transfer from one school to another without losing eligibility. This bill repeals the open transfer rule adopted 3 years ago. The bill passed by a vote of 78-19 with 2 members absent. A motion was made to make the effective date July 1, 2027. The motion was debated and defeated by a vote of 37-59 with 3 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5089 providing for verified mastery of content standards for transcripts when a student enrolls or re-enrolls in a public school in the state. This requires a report made to LOCEA annually of students who re-enroll into public schools and whether they attended a homeschool, charter school, private school, microschool, or HOPE scholarship program. The bill passed by a vote of 87-4 with 8 absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5163 relating to exempting child-care programs operated by a county board of education exclusively for the children of its employees from certain licensing requirements. The Committee Substitute requires the state DoE to promulgate rules for the child-care programs and adds the children of students to the program. The bill passed by a vote of 91-2 with 6 members absent.
HB 5463 relating to Decreasing Board of Education Limits. The bill reduces BRIM coverage for school boards to $1,000,000 and removes the $5,000,000 excess coverage requirement for county boards. The bill passed by a vote of 86-10 with 3 absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5537 repealing obsolete and outdated sections of the Education code. This removes 3 sections of outdated codes. The bill passed by a vote of 96-0 with 3 absent.
HB 5683 relating to graduation requirements for public schools. This bill requires the state BoE to promulgate rules providing for the minimum requirements for graduation from public schools and may include course credits, competency demonstrations, and/or assessments. The bill passed by a vote of 94-2 with 3 members absent.
Second Reading
The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 4588 relating to participating in the federal tax credit scholarship program. This allows individuals to make qualified contributions to scholarship granting organizations.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4965 relating to patient-centered treatment flexibility within PEIA. The Committee Substitute would allow a patient that has received prior approval to receive an alternate treatment without prior approval. It does prohibit going back to the previous treatment.
The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 4995 requiring the use of video cameras in certain special education classrooms. The bill prohibits using the video for evaluation purposes and requires the school to notify parents of a break in the video.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5438 to modify the foundation allowance to improve instructional programs. The Committee Substitute provides the State Doe must implement a uniform budgeting system, the Governor shall provide in each budget the appropriation for the Third Grade Success Act and allows the State DoE and county BoE to set aside funds to be used for trainings of programs.
The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 5453 to modify the school aid funding formula. The Committee Substitute would state beginning for the school year 2029-2030, all county BoEs shall be funded by a block grant in the amount of $6,100 per student. The bill also provides additional funding for students with special needs using a tier system. School systems may also request additions funding for special cases through the Supplemental School Aid Fund to be established. The bill advances to third reading with the general right to amend.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5480 relating to establishing the WV Youth Summer Employment and Career Readiness Program. This bill provides paid summer employment opportunities for students. An amendment was offered by Delegate Butler that the bill applies equally to all youth who want the summer job instead of priority identified youth. The amendment was adopted. The bill as amended now advances to third reading.
HB 5511 to allow money to be paid to county BoE employees' estates for accrued and unused leave if they pass away before retirement. This would provide a lump sum not to exceed $6,000 to the estate for unused leave days.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5587 to authorize cameras in school buses to send red light violators footage directly to the applicable law enforcement agency for ticketing and enforcement. This bill allows the footage to be sent to law enforcement.
HB 5686 relating to the timing of payments of annually required deposit into an eligible recipients HOPE Scholarship account. This bill originated in the House Finance Committee and now changes the payment disbursements from twice a year to 4 times a year. An amendment was offered by Delegate Hornbuckle to allow the payments to be rewarded based upon total family income. The amendment failed by a vote of 14-74 with 1 absent. A second amendment was offered by Delegate Hornbuckle to return the bill to its original form. The amendment was ruled not germane. The bill now advances to third reading.
These bills now advance to the third reading.
First Reading – No education bills
Education Committee
Today in House Education, the following bills were on the markup and passage stage:
SB 155 relating to adjunct teaching positions. The bill would authorize the State BoE to establish an adjunct teaching permit and allow counties to enter into a contract with these individuals when no certified teacher applied for the position. The individual must have a four- year college degree or 4 years' experience in the related field. A Committee Amendment was adopted that would make two changes to the bill. The first require the position to be posted each year and the adjunct could reapply each year. The second change added clarifying language about the adjunct applying each year. The motion to report SB 155 as amended to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
The Committee Substitute for SB 694 removing county residency requirement for county superintendent of schools. The bill states the county board may require in the contract residency requirements. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for 694 be reported to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
On the Committee Hearing stage was the Committee Substitute for SB 890 changing certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours. The bill would change the 180-day requirement to 900 hours. It also has 25 hours of non-instructional days. The effective date if this bill were to pass would be July 1, 2027, to look at possible issues with the bill. Co-President Dale Lee spoke about the concerns with the bill including retirement issue, and the days conversion.
Monday, March 2, 2026 – 48th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
**SB 972: Relating to education placements during child abuse and neglect investigations. Today, during the morning session, Senator Joey Garcia, Marion, attempted a motion to pull Senate Bill 972, known as Raylee’s Law, from the Senate Health and Human Resources Committee and bring it directly before the full Senate on first reading. Senator Martin, Lewis, moved to table the motion. Roll call was demanded. After the motion was tabled, Senator Garcia requested that all bills on third reading be read in their entirety. SB 972 would pause a request for homeschoolers and parents attempting to move students to a private or microschool during a pending child abuse investigation. It would also require CPS to complete the investigation in 10 days. The bill is named for an eight-year-old girl who died of abuse and neglect after her teachers’ notified CPS of potential abuse prompting her parents to homeschool the child.
Third Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 644: Requiring Economic Development Authority participate in federal tax credit scholarship program. The bill passed the full Senate 30-0-4 and was reported to the House of Delegates for consideration. A title amendment was adopted and the bill is effective from passage. The purpose of this bill is to require the Secretary of Commerce to participate in the federal tax credit scholarship program; and to identify qualified scholarship organizations.
Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 689: Creating WV Homeschool Student Athletics Participation Act. The bill passed the full Senate 31-0-3 and was reported to the House of Delegates for consideration. The Committee Substitute and amended title of the bill would allow organized homeschool athletic teams to participate in interscholastic athletic competitions with WVSSAC member schools while ensuring homeschool teams do not affect WVSSAC rankings, standings, or postseason play. Participation is voluntary for the WVSSAC member school.
Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 929: Relating to state board intervention into county school systems. Senator Martin, Lewis, moved the bill be laid over. With no objection, the bill was laid over.
Eng. SB 1024: Allowing rescission or reversal of school closure decisions through July 15. The permissive bill would allow county boards of education to rescind or reverse a school closure decision through July 15, if there is a change in finances or enrollment. The bill passed the full Senate 31-0-3 and was reported to the House of Delegates for consideration.
Eng. SB 1044: Requiring Board of Education to promulgate rule that sets forth common graduation requirements. Passed, 31-0-3. The bill adds education and career pathways, including military, CTE, and college preparation to the minimum 16 credits of general graduation requirements.
Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 1061: Authorizing reassignment of school personnel in certain instances (like Com. Sub. for HB 5012). The bill passed the full Senate 32-0-2 and was reported to the House of Delegates for consideration. A Committee Substitute addressed the concerns of Education West Virginia, and now only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students.
Eng. SB 1064: Redefining long-term substitute as it relates to public school personnel. The bill refers to the position. Allows the county board of education flexibility to keep a substitute in a position for more than 30 days without posting it. The bill passed the full Senate 31-0-3 and reported to the House of Delegates for consideration.
Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 1077: Requiring vocational education agriculture programs be offered to all students. The bill passed the full Senate 32-0-2 and was reported to the House of Delegates for consideration. The bill would require county school districts to offer vocational agriculture programs to students and limit the circumstances under which those programs can be eliminated. Under the bill, a district could only terminate its agriculture program if it had the lowest enrollment among all vocational education programs, and it would have to report its reasoning to the Legislative Oversight Commission on Education Accountability (LOCEA).
Second Reading
Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 502: Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act. Engrossed & Advanced to Third Reading. The purpose of this bill is to protect and sustain women’s collegiate Olympic sports programs through permanent endowment funding, reward verified institutional efficiencies and includes incentives for private investment through targeted tax credits.
Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 657 Creating Cohen Craddock Student Athlete Safety Act. Engrossed & Advanced to Third Reading. Requires the use of certain safety equipment and concussion protocol training during school organized football participation.
First Reading
No education bills on second reading today.
Committee Meetings
Finance
Com. Sub. for SB 67: Relating to public charter schools. The purpose of this bill is to allow authorization and funding of alternative high-risk population public charter schools; provide eligibility requirements to be an alternative high risk population public charter school; specify which students are included as "high risk;" require West Virginia Board of Education rule setting forth requirements for alternative high risk population charter school funding; allow an institution of higher education to apply to an authorizer to establish virtual or on-campus public charter microschools; allow any public charter school to partner with learning pods and microschools to provide instruction to those learning pods and microschools; and make other changes to the public charter school law. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
HOUSE
Floor session
Third Reading
The following bills were on third reading on the House Floor session:
HB 4768 relating to updating definitions to incorporate federal law changes to qualified higher education expenses for purposes of 529 accounts. This bill adds public schools to the definition of eligible educational institutions in which the money may be used. The bill passed by a vote of 96-0 with 3 members absent.
HB 5048 to guarantee timely educational evaluations and continuity of services for children entering foster care. This bill would provide virtual learning through the county the student was last enrolled until placement. Virtual instruction must begin within 3 days of the placement. The bill passed by a vote of 96-0 with 3 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5321 to guarantee timely educational evaluations and continuity of services for children entering foster care. The Committee Substitute was adopted to streamline the process for foster students needing an IEP. The bill passed by a vote of 95-0 with 4 members absent.
HB 5354 relating to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education. The bill authorizes HEPC to promulgate rules regarding administration and mental health loan program and the STAND program. The bill passed by a vote of 94-2 with 4 members absent.
Second Reading
HB 4425 to repeal the provision allowing for students to transfer from one school to another without losing eligibility. This bill repeals the open transfer rule adopted 3 years ago.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5089 providing for verified mastery of content standards for transcripts when a student enrolls or re-enrolls in a public school in the state. This requires a report made to LOCEA annually of students who re-enroll into public schools and whether they attended a homeschool, charter school, private school, microschool, or HOPE scholarship program.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5163 relating to exempting child-care programs operated by a county board of education exclusively for the children of its employees from certain licensing requirements. The Committee Substitute requires the state DoE to promulgate rules for the child-care programs and adds the children of students to the program.
HB 5463 relating to Decreasing Board of Education Limits. The bill reduces BRIM coverage for school boards to $1,000,000 and removes the $5,000,000 excess coverage requirement for county boards.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5537 repealing obsolete and outdated sections of the Education code. This removes 3 sections of outdated codes.
HB 5683 relating to graduation requirements for public schools. This bill requires the state BoE to promulgate rules providing for the minimum requirements for graduation from public schools and may include course credits, competency demonstrations, and/or assessments. Delegate Lewis offered an amendment that would require any school receiving state funds (HOPE Scholarship) would be student to the same graduation requirements. The amendment failed.
These bills now advance to third reading.
First Reading
The following bills were on first reading:
The Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 4588 relating to participating in the federal tax credit scholarship program. This allows individuals to make qualified contributions to scholarship granting organizations.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5438 to modify the foundation allowance to improve instructional programs. The Committee Substitute provides the State Doe must implement a uniform budgeting system, the Governor shall provide in each budget the appropriation for the Third Grade Success Act and allows the State DoE and county BoE to set aside funds to be used for trainings of programs.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5480 relating to establishing the WV Youth Summer Employment and Career Readiness Program. This bill provides paid summer employment opportunities for students.
HB 5511 to allow money to be paid to county BoE employees' estates for accrued and unused leave if they pass away before retirement. This would provide a lump sum not to exceed $6,000 to the estate for unused leave days.
HB 5686 relating to the timing of payments of annually required deposit into an eligible recipients HOPE Scholarship account. This bill originated in the House Finance Committee and now changes the payment disbursements from twice a year to 4 times a year.
Committee Meetings
Committee on Health and Human Resources
Markup and Passage
Today in House Health, a Committee Substitute for HB 4965 relating to patient-centered treatment flexibility within the Public Employees Insurance Agency. The Committee Substitute states if you choose an alternative treatment (without requiring prior authorize for the alternative treatment) you cannot receive the original treatment. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 4965 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
Committee on Education
Education Committee
In House Education the following bills were on the Committee Hearing stage:
The Committee Substitute for HB 5669 prohibiting the home schooling of children in certain circumstances. To be known as Raylee's Law, this prohibits homeschooling if there is a pending abuse or neglect investigation. The Committee Substitute has a two-week backstop for an investigation and must be from a mandatory reporter. The motion was made to take up the bill for immediate consideration. The motion requires a two-thirds vote. The motion passed to suspend the rules on a 17-8 vote. The motion was made to consider the Committee Substitute for HB 5669. Delegate Hornby offered an amendment was to reduce the number of days for investigation from 14 to 7 days. The amendment passed. Delegate Hornby offered another amendment to add State Board of Education rule after the word policy on line 10 of the Committee Substitute. The amendment passed. Delegate Crouse offered an amendment to change the Superintendent's "authorize" to permit. The motion pass. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 5669 as amended to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Committee on Judiciary was adopted. The Chair indicated he will ask to dispense with the referral to the Committee on Judiciary.
SB 155 relating to adjunct teaching permits. This bill would allow the State DoE to issue an adjunct teacher permit and the individual may be hired to fill a vacant teaching position, offer a new program or class, or to supplement a program currently being offered only if no certified teacher is available and accepts the position. The employment may be part-time or full-time basis and the pay is not required to be based on the teacher pay schedule. Education WV Co-President Dale Lee spoke at the hearing voicing the many concerns Education WV has with this bill.
The Committee Substitute for SB 694 removing county residency requirement for county superintendent of schools. The Committee Substitute allows a county board in its contract to require the superintendent reside in the county. It may also prohibit in its contract the superintendent from working remotely with certain exceptions.
SB 802 relating to school preparation days. This bill provides for two Leave Teachers Alone days to be uses by the teacher for activities that will improve instruction. These days shall occur before the beginning of the instructional term. Co-President Dale Lee spoke to the bill on the need for preparation.
These bills now move to the markup and passage stage in the Education Committee.
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Daily Updates
Friday, February 27, 2026 – 45th Day of Session
HOUSE
Judiciary Committee
Today in House Judiciary the following bills were on the markup and passage stage:
The Committee Substitute for HB 4995 requiring the use of video cameras in certain special education classrooms. The Committee Substitute offers if there is any interruption the parents must be notified. A Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute was offered to clarify the video may not be used for evaluation purposes but may be used for disciplinary purposes. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute for HB 4995 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
HB 5587 to authorize cameras in school buses to send red light violators footage directly to the applicable law enforcement agency for ticketing and enforcement. A Committee Substitute was offered for technical clean up. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 5587 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
On the House Floor session was the Committee Substitute for HB 4395 relating to investigations of allegations of child safety violations for school personnel. The Committee Substitute would allow investigations to continue even if the school employee transfers or resigns. The bill passed by a vote of 93-0 with 7 members absent.
Second Reading
The following bills were on second reading:
HB 4768 relating to updating definitions to incorporate federal law changes to qualified higher education expenses for purposes of 529 accounts. This bill adds public schools to the definition of eligible educational institutions in which the money may be used.
HB 5048 to guarantee timely educational evaluations and continuity of services for children entering foster care. This bill would provide virtual learning through the county the student was last enrolled until placement.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5321 to guarantee timely educational evaluations and continuity of services for children entering foster care.
The Committee Substitute was adopted to streamline the process for foster students needing an IEP.
HB 5354 relating to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education. The bill authorizes HEPC to promulgate rules regarding administration and mental health loan program and the STAND program.
These bills now advance to third reading.
First Reading
The following bills were on first reading and advance to second reading:
HB 4425 to repeal the provision allowing for students to transfer from one school to another without losing eligibility. This bill repeals the open transfer rule adopted 3 years ago.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5089 providing for verified mastery of content standards for transcripts when a student enrolls or re-enrolls in a public school in the state. This requires a report made to LOCEA annually of students who re-enroll into public schools and whether they attended a homeschool, charter school, private school, microschool, or HOPE scholarship program.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5163 relating to exempting child-care programs operated by a county board of education exclusively for the children of its employees from certain licensing requirements. The Committee Substitute requires the state DoE to promulgate rules for the child-care programs and adds the children of students to the program.
HB 5463 relating to Decreasing Board of Education Limits. The bill reduces BRIM coverage for school boards to $1,000,000 and removes the $5,000,000 excess coverage requirement for county boards.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5537 repealing obsolete and outdated sections of the Education code. This removes 3 sections of outdated codes.
HB 5683 relating to graduation requirements for public schools. This bill requires the state BoE to promulgate rules providing for the minimum requirements for graduation from public schools and may include course credits, competency demonstrations, and/or assessments.
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Eng. SB 63 creates the Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools SOAR Act
Eng. Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 745 relates to requirements for school nutrition programs. The bill passed
Second Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 644 requires the State Treasurer participate in federal tax credit scholarship program.
Com. Sub. for SB 689 creates WV Homeschool Student Athletics Participation Program.
Com. Sub. for SB 929 relates to state board intervention into county school systems.
SB 1024 allows rescission or reversal of school closure decisions through July 15.
SB 1044 requires the Board of Education to promulgate rule that sets forth common graduation requirements.
Com. Sub. for SB 1061 authorizes reassignment for school personnel in certain instances.
SB 1064 redefines long-term substitute as it relates to public school personnel.
Com. Sub. for SB 1077 Requiring vocational education agriculture programs to be offered to all students.
All bills advanced to third reading.
First Reading
Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 502 creates the Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act.
Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 657 creates the Cohen Craddock Student Athlete Safety Act.
Both bills advanced to second reading.
Thursday, February 26, 2026 – 44th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 1020: Allowing up to five educational leave days within definition of "excused absence." The bill passed 34-0.
Second Reading
SB 63: Creating Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act (original similar to HB 4720). The was advanced.
Com. Sub. for SB 644: Requiring State Treasurer participate in federal tax credit scholarship program was laid over one day.
Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 745: Relating to requirements for school nutrition programs. An amendment was offered by Senator Oliverio to exclude dairy products from the requirements (leaving milk, yogurt, dairy products the way they are now). The amendment failed, and the bill advanced.
First Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 929: Relating to state board intervention into county school systems.
SB 966: Changing requirements for home school instruction.
Committee Meetings
Education
SB 1024: Allowing rescission or reversal of school closure decisions through July 15.
SB 1044: Requiring Board of Education to promulgate rule that sets forth common graduation requirements. The bill adds pathways to the minimum 16 credits of general graduation requirements. Other states have done this, and it is a work in progress, according to the chairwoman.
Com. Sub. for SB 1061: Removing prohibition against reassigning school personnel in certain instances. The Com. Sub. mirrors the Com. Sub. for HB 5012 which only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students.
SB 1064: Redefining "long-term substitute" as it relates to public school personnel. The bill refers to the position, not the employee and allows flexibility to keep a sub in a position for more than 30 days without posting it.
Com. Sub. for SB 1077: Protecting vocational education agriculture programs. The Committee Sub. may change the 2027 date in the bill but was not available for viewing at the time of this report.
Com. Sub. for SB 689: Reducing grade levels in which student is allowed to transfer schools. During the committee meeting there was confusion within the committee about the title of the bill. The title will be amended. The Com. Sub. apparently relates to the Home School Athletic Organization. At the time of this report, it was not posted online.
All bills were advanced from the committee to the full Senate and recommended that they do pass.
Health and Human Resources
Com. Sub. for SB 114 creates a Paid Parental Leave Pilot Program benefit program for employees of county boards of education. It allows for 12 weeks of paid parental leave, for the care of biological, foster and adopted children. The bill was reported to the full Senate with recommendation that it do pass but under the original double reference first to the committee on finance.
Finance
Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 502 creates the Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act. The committee substitute removes the tax credit and contains technical cleanup. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
Com. Sub for Com. Sub. for SB 657 creates the Cohen Craddock Student Athlete Safety Act. This bill provides for education on concussion prevention, concussion protocol, and soft-shell helmet covers. The bill provides for a grant program, not a mandate. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
The following bills were on third reading on the House Floor session:
The Committee Substitute for HB 4395 relating to investigations of allegations of child safety violations for school personnel. This provides the investigations shall continue even if the employee transfers to another school or resigns prior to the investigation being complete. Action on the bill was postponed one day.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5012 providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. The Committee Substitute only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students. The bill passed by a vote of 88-4 with 8 members absent.
Second Reading
No education bills on 2nd reading.
First Reading
The following bills were on first reading:
HB 4768 relating to updating definitions to incorporate federal law changes to qualified higher education expenses for purposes of 529 accounts. Adds public schools to the definition of eligible educational institutions in which the money may be used.
HB 5048 to ensure virtual instruction for foster students while in temporary placement facilities. This bill would provide virtual learning through the county the student was last enrolled until placement.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5321 to guarantee timely educational evaluations and continuity of services for children entering foster care.
The Committee Substitute was adopted to streamline the process for foster students needing an IEP.
HB 5354 relating to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education. The bill authorizes HEPC to promulgate rules regarding administration and mental health loan program and the STAND program.
These four bills now advance the second reading.
Committee Meetings
Finance Committee
Markup and Passage
HB ORG - HOPE Scholarship
Today in House Finance a substitute bill for the Hope Scholarship was presented. The new bill simply changes the payment schedule for the payout of the HOPE Scholarship from twice a year to 4 times a year. Delegate Williams offered an amendment to institute a tier return based on income, Delegate Hornbuckle offered an amendment to require the money only be spent in WV private schools. Both amendments were ruled not germane to the bill since it only pertained to the times for fund distribution. The motion to report the bill to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
Judiciary
Committee Hearing
In House Judiciary the following bills were on the Committee hearing stage:
The Committee Substitute for HB 4995 requiring the use of video camera in certain education classrooms.
HB 5587 to authorize cameras in school buses to send red light violators footage directly to the applicable law enforcement agency for ticketing and enforcement.
Health and Human Resources
Committee Hearing
The Committee on Health and Human Resources held the public hearing on HB 4965 relating to patient-centered treatment flexibility within the Public Employees Insurance Agency. This bill would allow an employee who has received prior authorization for treatment to receive an alternate treatment for the same condition without additional prior authorization. The bill now advances to the markup and passage stage.
Wednesday, February 25, 2026 – 43rd Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
No education bills on 3rd reading today.
Second Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 1020: Allowing up to five educational leave days within definition of “excused absence.” Engrossed and advanced to third reading.
First Reading
Com. Sub for Com. Sub. for SB 745 relates to requirements for school nutrition programs. The bill adds additional restrictions on dyes, and provisions limiting sugars, requiring menus posted, provisions for waivers of products are not available. There was discussion both for and against the bill, with availability of alternative products and cost being the issues raised by some. The changes would take effect in August 2027. A committee amendment grants waivers in instances of unavailability or increased fiscal impact. The bill advanced to second reading.
Committee Meetings
Select Committee on School Choice
SB 644 requires State Treasurer participate in federal tax credit scholarship (voucher) program. No discussion or amendments by the committee and the bill advanced to the full Senate.
SB 1017: Establishing Charter School Direct Loan Program and Charter School Credit Enhancement Program. The state Economic Development Authority would oversee these funds, which could come from either private or government sources. No discussion or amendments by the committee and the bill advanced from the committee and will move to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 966 changes the requirements for home school instruction. The bill eliminates numerous homeschooling guidelines including a requirement that any specific subjects are taught, eliminates the recordkeeping requirement on instructional records by parents, eliminates the requirement that the parent have a high school education or GED, eliminates any requirements for assessments or achievement tests. Reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass. On first reading tomorrow, 2/26/26.
A failed amendment was offered from the Senator Clements from Wetzel, requiring the basic requirements be put back in the bill, to reinstate requirements of attendance progress and instruction, that was stricken from the bill. Woelfel spoke in favor of the amendment. Azinger spoke against the amendment stating that “homeschool parents know how to do it,” also stating that “this bill is about homeschooling freedom.” Rose spoke against the amendment. Rucker spoke against the amendment.
Originating Bill – creates a school finance transparency commission. Reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
Banking and Insurance
Originating Bill: PEIA
The goal of the bill is to create a special investigative unit to investigate provider fraud. There is money available in the existing budget to fund the task force. Senator Garcia offered a successful amendment. The bill, as amended, was reported to the full Senate with a recommendation that it do pass.
Finance
SB 63: Creating Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act (similar to HB 4720). This bill allows for the expansion of in-person public charter schools, including financial and structural support, to serve geographically remote areas. The bill was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass. Given immediate consideration, on first reading this evening.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
The following bills were on third reading on the House Floor Session:
The Committee Substitute for SB 250, the Senate Budget Bill. An amendment was offered by Delegate Criss that would substitute the House Budget into the Senate Bill. This bill includes pay raises and money go PEIA. The amendment also changes the funding amount into the HOPE Scholarship. Several amendments were offered and were defeated. The motion to approve the Committee Substitute for SB 250 as amended passed by a vote of 83-14 with three members absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4798 permitting teachers to wear a "mobile alert button" for emergency situations, to be known as "Alyssa’s Law." This bill makes it permissive for counties rather than requiring the alert button. Four counties in WV are currently using this type of system. This bill passed by a vote of 96-0 with 4 members absent.
HB 5110 to amend the code section providing for waiver of tuition and fees for senior citizens auditing certain college classes. This bill changes the age from 65 to 60 for senior citizens to audit college classes. The bill passed by a vote of 94-2 with 4 members absent.
Second Reading
Three bills were on second reading.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4027 the House Budget Bill. The bill was moved to the House Calendar with the passage of Committee Substitute for SB 250.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4395 relating to investigations of allegations of child safety violations for school personnel. This provides the investigations shall continue even if the employee transfers to another school or resigns prior to the investigation being complete.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5012 providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. The Committee Substitute only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students.
These bills now advance to third reading.
First Reading
No education bills on 1st reading today.
Committee Meetings
Education
Markup and Passage
The following bills were up for markup and passage in House Education today.
HB 4425 to repeal the provision allowing for students to transfer from one school to another without losing eligibility. The bill repeals the current transfer rule for athletics. The motion to report HB 4425 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass.
HB 5089 providing for verification mastery of content standards for transcripts when a student enrolls or re-enrolls in a public school. A Committee Substitute was adopted to clarify that each public school shall reviews the class, grade, and source on the student's public-school transcript. It also requires reports made to LOCEA of the demographics of students who re-enroll into public schools in the state and whether they attended homeschooling, charter, private, micro or a HOPE program. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 5089 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
HB 5163 relating to exempting child-care programs operated by a county BoE exclusively for the children of its employees from certain licensing requirements. A Committee Substitute was adopted that allows the State BoE to promulgate rules for child-care in the school for employees and students. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 5163 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
HB 5537 repealing obsolete and outdated sections of the Education code. A Committee Substitute was adopted that clarifies the sections of code that no longer apply. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 5537 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
The Originating Bill providing that the State BoE shall prescribe requirements for graduation. This bill would require the State BoE to promulgate rules for graduation requirements and courses that could be substituted for certain classes. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for the Originating Bill to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
Two resolutions were also discussed:
Originating Resolution for the Firefighter Pilot Program. The motion to report the Originating Resolution to the floor with the recommendation it be adopted but first be reported to the Committee on Rules was adopted.
Originating Resolution for County School Districts Consolidation. This requires a study to discuss the consolidation of the 55 school boards. The motion to report the Originating Resolution to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the Committee on Rules was adopted.
Finance
Today in House Finance the originating bill for the HOPE Scholarship was up for markup and passage. The bill caps the amount of the HOPE Scholarship to $5,250, limits the spending to private schools in West Virginia, limits the areas the money can be spent, and requires assessments to homeschool students receiving the HOPE. The bill was delayed and will possibly be taken up at a later time.
HB 5463 relates to decreasing Board of Education Limits. The bill reduces the BRIM limits from $1.25 million to $1 million. It also removes the additional $5 million the board is required to carry. The motion to report HB 5463 to floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
Tuesday, February 24, 2026 – 42nd Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
No bills to report.
Committee Meetings
Education
SB 1048: Transferring responsibility of school position eliminations to WV Board of Education. The bill requires the West Virginia Board of Education to identify school personnel positions for elimination based on county boards’ determinations of need. The state board would determine if a county employs more staff than allowed under the foundation allowance formulas, and counties must justify how they pay for any excess staff. When eliminating positions, the state board must consider class sizes, bus route length, input from the affected county, and other relevant factors. A Committee Substitute was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass but first referred to Finance Committee.
**The Committee Sub was not available for viewing when this report was written. The Committee Sub apparently includes language that the WVDE informs county Superintendents of their personnel numbers according to formula. Then, the county Superintendent submits a plan of personnel changes to meet those numbers. Finally, the State BOE votes on the personnel changes. It appears that there would be no opportunity for hearings before the personnel decisions are voted upon by the WVBOE. If the county keeps positions over formula, they must provide evidence of how they are supporting those positions.
SB 929: Requiring State Auditor issue notice of noncompliance to county boards for untimely reports. This bill would tie school financial reporting to state funding. It requires the West Virginia State Auditor to issue a notice of noncompliance if a county board fails to submit its annual financial statement within 90 days after the end of the fiscal year. If the board remains non-compliant for more than 60 additional days, it would be ineligible to receive discretionary state funding until compliance is achieved. There was a committee substitute for this bill that was unavailable at the time of this report. Senator Jay Taylor (Taylor Co.) proposed a successful amendment to the com. sub. that would help make sure (financial) issues are being caught ahead of time. The Com Sub for SB 929, as amended was reported to the full Senate with a recommendation of passage.
SB 1020: Allowing up to five educational leave days within definition of "excused absence." The bill amends West Virginia’s compulsory school attendance law to allow up to five “educational leave days” to count as excused absences. Students could use up to five days per school year for educational purposes, provided a parent submits a written note within three instructional days after the student returns to school explaining how the time was used. The West Virginia Board of Education would be required to establish a legislative rule defining what qualifies as an educational leave day. Senator Joey Garcia (D – Marion, 13) proposed a successful amendment adding language that would require the county to ensure that a parent’s note meets certain requirements. The bill, as amended, was reported to the full Senate with a recommendation of passage.
**Originating Bill (similar to work Senator Morris did last session with Remote Schools Bill)
This bill provides financial help for the 10 counties with the lowest enrollments and have max levies in place and K-5 extremely remote schools. WVDE funds that are unspent from the previous year most likely due to declining enrollment and annually around 25-30 million dollars are returned to the state general funds. This bill would use that money to give additional financial support to the aforementioned counties. Included -if a student is enrolled in one of the 10 counties and an extremely remote school (by definition) that student will count twice in calculating funds distribution. The committee agreed to the language of the originating bill and it was reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass but first to the committee on Finance.
Health and Human Resources
SB 619: Creating Stop the Bleed Act was reported to the full Senate with recommendation that it do pass but under the original double reference first be referred to the committee on education.
The bill requires each county school board to develop a program to address bleeding control by providing bleeding kits and training in each school. The bill also includes civil immunity.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
HB 4591 to recognize School Athletic Directors who have achieved a nationally recognized professional certificate through the NIAAA. This bill would encourage certification and could be used as advanced pay. The bill passed by a vote of 88-8 with 4 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4656 relating to chronic absenteeism. The bill looks at preventive measures rather than punitive measures and defines "chronic absenteeism." The court option remains in the bill for a specified number of absences. The bill passed by a vote of 96-0 with 4 members absent.
Second Reading
The following bills were on Second reading:
The Committee Substitute for SB 250, the Senate Budget Bill, moves to third reading with the right to amend.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4027, the Budget Bill. The bill contains a $1,560 pay increase for teachers, an $87 per month increase for service professionals, and a 3% pay raise for state troopers. The bill also puts money into PEIA. The bill will be laid over for one day retaining its place on the agenda.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4798 permitting teachers to wear a “mobile alert button” for emergency situations to be known as “Alyssa’s Law.” The Committee Substitute make the alert button permissive for counties rather than required. Four counties in WV are currently using this type of system.
HB 5110 to amend the section providing for waiver of tuition and fees for senior citizens auditing certain college classes. The bill changes the age from 65 to 60 for those wanting to audit classes.
These bills all advance to third reading.
First Reading
On first reading and advancing to second reading were:
The Committee Substitute for HB 4395 requiring that all investigations into allegations of child safety violations and child welfare risks continue for all school personnel regardless of whether the accused moved to a different job or school. The Committee Substitute allows private schools to report investigations to the State DoE.
The Committee Substitute for HB 5012 providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. The Committee Substitute only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students.
Committee Meetings
House Education
Today in House Education the following bills were on the markup and passage stage:
HB 5048 to ensure virtual instruction for foster students while in temporary placement facilities. The bill provides virtual learning through the county the student was last enrolled. The motion to HB 5048 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
HB 5321 to guarantee timely educational evaluations and continuity of services for children entering foster care. The bill changes the time frame from 80 days to 30 days. A Committee Substitute was adopted to streamline the process for foster students needing an IEP. The motion to report The Committee Substitute for HB 5321 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
HB 5354 relating to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education. The bill strikes outdated language and adds mental health loan program and the STAND program. The motion to report HB 5354 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
On the Committee hearing stage were:
HB 4425 to repeal the provision allowing for students to transfer from one school to another without losing eligibility. The bill would revert back to the provision that students could only transfer once in the 8th or 9th grade. There would be one calendar year before the student would be eligible for athletics.
HB 5163 relating to exempting child-care programs operated by a county BoE exclusively for the children of its employees from certain licensing requirements. This would exempt a school child-care program for school employees only from certain licensing requirements.
HB 5537 repealing obsolete and outdated sections of the Education code. This would repeal OEPA and other outdated sections of code.
Originating Bill to provide that the state board shall prescribe requirements for graduation. This bill would give the board an opportunity to grant credit for students showing proficiency in a content are
There were also two study resolutions:
Firefighter Pilot Program. This resolution aims to investigate how to expand Firefighter I and Firefighter II programs across the state.
County School District Consolidation. This resolution aims to create a study to consolidate the 55 county school boards into regional boards.
House Finance
Today in House Finance the following bills were on the Committee Hearing stage:
HB4485 allows education employees to donate sick leave to co-workers for maternity leave. The bill adds both maternity leave and compliances to the federal Family Leave Act guidelines.
HB 5453 modifies the school aid funding formula. The bill provides for a $6,500/student lump sum amount, a three-tier funding system for special education students and provides for a uniform budget system for the department of education.
HB 5511 allows money to be paid to nominee BoE employee's states for accrued and unused leave if they pass away before retirement. This bill provides for a lump sum not to exceed $6,000 to the family for unused sick days at death.
These bills now advance to the markup and passage stage.
Monday, February 23, 2026 – 41st Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 558 modifies penalties for school bus safety violations by vehicle operators.
SB 913: Removing annual report requirement for WV Research Trust Fund. This bill eliminates reporting requirements for the WV Research Trust Fund (once known as Bucks for Brains) because the there is no longer a balance in the fund. The bill keeps the program in place in case the state wants to revive it in the future.
Eng. SB 925: Providing Future Farmers of America-sanctioned activities not count toward limit of excused absences.
All three bills passed and now move to the House for consideration.
*nothing education-related on first or second reading
Committee Meetings
Finance
Com. Sub. for SB 745 relates to requirements for school nutrition programs. The bill adds additional restrictions on dyes, and provisions limiting sugars, requiring menus posted, provisions for waivers of products are not available. There was discussion both for and against the bill, with availability of alternative products and cost being the issues raised by some. The changes would take effect in August 2027. Sen. Grady offered an amendment to a grant waivers in instances of unavailability or increased fiscal impact. The amendment was adopted. Another amendment was offered to keep the scope of the bill to public schools, and the amendment was adopted. An amendment to exclude dairy was defeated. The bill advanced and will move to the full Senate for consideration.
HOUSE
Floor Sessions
11 AM Session
Third Reading
Com. Sub. for HB 4087 creates the West Virginia-Ireland Education Alliance. The bill will create $50,000 grant opportunities for 2-year and 4-year institutions. The bill passed and the bill was made effective on March 17, 2026.
Second Reading
HB 4591 to recognize School Athletic Directors who have achieved a nationally recognized professional certificate through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) to be eligible for a salary bonus. The bill advanced to third reading.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4656 relates to chronic absenteeism. The bill looks at preventative measures rather than punitive measures to address student absenteeism. The court system is still involved after a specific number of absences. The bill advanced to third reading.
First Reading
Com. Sub. for HB 4027 is the House’s Budget Bill, making appropriations of public money out of the Treasury in accordance with section 51, article VI of the Constitution. The bill advanced to second reading.
Com. Sub. for HB 4798 permits teachers to wear a “mobile alert button” for emergency situations, to be known as “Alyssa’s Law.” The bill advanced to second reading.
HB 5110 to amend the section of code providing for waiver of tuition and fees for older persons auditing certain college classes. This bill changes the age from 65 to 60. The bill advanced to second reading.
Committee Meetings
House Education
Mark up and passage
Today in House Education HB 4395, providing that all investigations into allegations of child safety violations and child welfare risks continue for all school personnel regardless of whether the accused moved to a different job or school, was up for markup and passage. This bill pertains to schools and school boards. A Committee Substitute was adopted to add the provision that any nonpublic school may elect to provide information to the state superintendent to be housed in the database. The database shall include the reason for the investigation or rationale for the suspension or dismissal. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 4395 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
The following bills were on the Committee Hearing stage:
HB 4587 prohibiting public funds from supporting low-earning outcome postsecondary degree programs. This bill prohibits the use of state funds for degrees that would be “low-earning.” This mirrors the “Big Beautiful Bill” on the federal level.
HB 5048 to ensure virtual instruction for foster students while in temporary placement facilities. This bill allows for immediate virtual placement for the student placed in a foster situation and if the student's residing county does not offer virtual, the student would be placed in the virtual program in the county placement was made.
HB 5321 to guarantee timely educational evaluations and continuity of services for children entering foster care. This bill would require evaluation services within 30 days for an IEP or 504 services, a change from the current 80 day requirement.
HB 5354 relating to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education. This bill authorizes HEPC to promulgate rules regarding administration and mental health loan program and the STAND program.
All four of these bills now advance to the markup and passage.
2026 Legislature: Weekly Wrap Up 2-27-26
Fifteen days left of the 2026 Legislative Session! The pace of committee action and floor sessions has increased significantly this week as next week’s crossover deadline looms and chambers are moving to get bills out of their house of origin. Both chambers have passed different versions of their budget, so House and Senate leadership will be working during the last two weeks to come to consensus on their budgetary priorities. Education WV continues to advocate for a larger pay increase for teachers and service personnel.
While this week’s wrap up is lengthy, expect next week’s update to trim down significantly as we will stop reporting on bills that fail to make it out of their originating chamber.
Pay Raise Bill Passes House, Still No Action from Lawmakers on PEIA
Last week the House passed HB 4765, the teacher, school personnel, and state trooper pay raise bill. The bill provides for a $1,560 increase for teachers, $87 per month for service professionals, and a 3% pay increase for State Police. The bill passed with a vote of 95-0 with 5 members absent. The bill moved to the Senate, where it awaits consideration by the Senate Finance Committee. Bills to address PEIA costs for employees have yet to appear on a committee agenda, and at this point, it’s doubtful that they will. This affects the impact of any potential pay increase. Education WV leaders have emphasized to legislators in their conversations to advocate for a larger pay increase for education employees. Education WV collaborated with lawmakers on bills to offer employees relief on PEIA, but committees have not considered these bills yet. These bills are:
- SB 660 would remove the requirement that an employee pay the actuarial value for spousal PEIA coverage and instead require the employee to pay for the coverage based upon their salary and tier of coverage.
- SB 526 would modify the 80/20 method of calculation of the employer and employee contribution percentages for PEIA premiums, lowering costs for employees.
HOPE Scholarship
In House Finance, HB 5686 concerning the Hope Scholarship was presented on the hearing stage last week and discussed. The initial version bill capped the Hope Scholarship amount to a flat $5,250, changes the payout to four times a year instead of two, will only pay to in-state private schools, deletes some of the current uses for the Hope Scholarship, and provides that homeschool students with an IEP must take the statewide assessment given in the public schools. Education WV believed this bill provides much needed boundaries in both the funding and implementation of the program. However, the bill met resistance and House Finance ultimately put forth a committee substitute on Wednesday this week that bill simply changes the payment schedule for the payout of the HOPE Scholarship from twice a year to 4 times a year. Delegate Williams offered an amendment to institute a tier return based on income; Delegate Hornbuckle offered an amendment to require the money only be spent in WV private schools. Both amendments were ruled not germane to the bill since the new committee substitute only pertained to the schedule for fund distribution. The bill advanced from the committee and moves to the House floor for consideration.
Bills that have passed both chambers
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4982 creates the Make WV Healthy Act of 2026. The purpose of this bill is to establish and expand a coordinated, statewide Healthy Lifestyles framework to promote nutrition, farm to school initiatives, physical activity, and wellness through cross-agency collaboration, school-based initiatives, public-private partnerships, grants, and reporting requirements to improve the health of West Virginians. The bill had passed the House and amendments were adopted in the Senate, where the bill passed. It must now go back to the House as the House will need to decide whether to concur with the Senate amendments.
HB 4575 is one of the bills in response to Hancock County’s financial crisis. This bill appropriates the funding to Hancock County Schools to meet their payroll and vendor obligations. During the Finance Committee meeting, the Chair and committee members made it clear that they expect the $8 million dollars for Hancock County to be a loan, and to be paid back at the some point. The bill was amended by the Senate before passage, and was sent back to the House to concur with the Senate version.
HB 5110 amends the code providing for waiver of tuition and fees for older persons auditing certain college classes. This bill changes the age from 65 to 60. The House passed the bill and it now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Bills that have passed one chamber
Committee Substitute for HB 4002 establishes the WV Collaboratory, which facilitates the dissemination of policy and research expertise through WVU, Marshall University, and West Virginia State University. The bill passed the House and now awaits consideration by the Senate.
Committee Substitute for HB 4005, the Workforce Development Act of 2026, provides for apprenticeship programs for ages 16 through 18, and clarifies the categories of employment which are prohibited or authorized for those who are under the age of 16. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
Com. Sub. for HB 4087 creates the West Virginia-Ireland Education Alliance. The bill will create $50,000 grant opportunities for 2-year and 4-year institutions. The bill passed the House and the bill was made effective on March 17, 2026. It now awaits consideration by the Senate.
HB 4081 establishes the Higher Education Health and Aid Grant. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
HB 4574 is the second bill in response to Hancock County’s financial crisis. This bill passed the House early in the session, but has not been taken up by the Senate yet.
Com. Sub. for HB 4395 provides that all investigations into allegations of child safety violations and child welfare risks continue for all school personnel regardless of whether the accused moved to a different job or school. A Committee Substitute was adopted to add the provision that any nonpublic school may elect to provide information to the state superintendent to be housed in the database. The database shall include the reason for the investigation or rationale for the suspension or dismissal. The bill passed the House and now awaits consideration by the Senate.
HB 4422 permits students in the eighth and ninth grade to attend summer school in order to raise their grades and establish academic eligibility to play sports in the fall. The bill does not require counties to offer summer school but makes eighth and ninth graders eligible for those counties that offer summer school. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
HB 4573 is the Foster Youth Post-Secondary Transition Awareness Act. This bill requires school counselors and graduation coaches to provide guidance and training in post-secondary opportunities, workforce development, housing and aftercare services for students in the foster care system. The bill passed the full House and moves to the Senate for consideration.
HB 4591 to recognize School Athletic Directors who have achieved a nationally recognized professional certificate through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) to be eligible for a salary bonus. The bill passed the House and now moves to the Senate for consideration.
HB 4592 requires safety mapping data for higher ed institutions and school crisis response planning. The bill passed the House and moves to the Senate for consideration.
HB 4996 relates to bail in cases involving terroristic threats to schools or children. A Committee Substitute was offered and creates mandatory bail conditions for individuals charged with making terrorist threats against a school, or a similar location including condition of bail or pretrial release that the defendant shall not reside within 1,000 feet of the boundary of any licensed child care center or school, GPS monitoring of the individuals charged, and mandates no contact, either direct or indirect, with any student, school employee, or any other person directly associated with or employed by the threatened facility. The Committee Substitute for HB 4996 passed the House and now moves to the Senate for consideration.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4999 relates to crimes against athletic officials. The bill adds "participants" and other school personnel to the language. The bill passed the House and moves to the Senate for consideration.
HB 5212 is a bill to revise, update and streamline the requirements for higher ed grants, scholarships, loans and financial aid for postsecondary education programs, workforce development initiatives, and workforce grants. The bill is a series of strike through and new policies for higher ed institutions. A Committee Substitute was offered to allow people with a degree to apply for a grant if going into the EMT field. The Committee Substitute was adopted and advanced to the House floor, where passed on 2/20.
SB 63 creates the Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act (SOAR Act). This bill allows for the expansion of in-person public charter schools, including financial and structural support, to serve geographically remote areas. The bill passed the Senate and moves to the House for consideration.
Eng. SB 155 relates to adjunct teaching permits. This bill creates adjunct teaching permits requiring 4 years of experience in the subject or bachelor’s degree. It also stipulates a 1-year permit period, requires providing a mentor teacher, and prohibits adjunct permit personnel from teaching special education. Under the bill, permit holders would be hired only if no traditionally certified applicants apply for the position. The bill passed unanimously and now moves to the House. While Education WV recognizes the need for many school systems to fill positions, there are changes in the bill we believe should be made to provide guardrails and hope to work with members of the House to adopt these changes.
SB 388 requires public elementary or secondary school make the Aitken Bible available to certain classrooms. During the Senate Education Committee discussion, it was explained that the purpose of this bill was to make the Aitken bible available in 4th, 8th and 10th grade social studies classrooms. No instruction is required by the teacher. The bill is modeled after last year’s “In God We Trust” sign bill as community organizations would provide these bibles at no expense to school systems. While this bill does not alter the instruction provided to students, Education WV believes it is an example of spending time during the legislative session on priorities that are out of touch with what our teachers and students need for success. The bill passed the Senate by a 30-4 vote and awaits consideration in the House.
SB 445 creates a program to include Potomac State College of West Virginia University as an eligible institution for participation in the "Learn and Earn Program." The bill removes reference to the program being a "pilot" program. The bill passed the Senate and awaits consideration by the House.
SB 536 relates to qualifications for serving on certain academic boards. The bill passed the Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 558 modifies penalties for school bus safety violations by vehicle operators. The bill passed the Senate and moves to the House for consideration.
SB 633 relates to the WV Commission on Holocaust Education. A committee substitute was advanced and contains several provisions including modernizing commission membership in light of the passing of Holocaust survivors and second-generation witnesses, strengthening safeguards for historical accuracy and mission integrity, and clarifying governance, transparency, and duties. The bill also ensures Holocaust education remains the central and primary purpose of the commission. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and passed the full Senate. It now moves to the House for consideration.
Committee Substitute for SB 694 removes county residency requirements for county superintendent of schools. An amendment to omit the travel time (hourly) restrictions was ultimately adopted. The bill advanced from the committee and passed the Senate. It now moves to the House for consideration.
SB 745 relates to requirements for school nutrition programs. A committee substitute was brought before the Health and Human Resources committee and adds additional restrictions on dyes, and provisions limiting sugars, requiring menus posted, provisions for waivers of products are not available. The Committee Substitute for SB 745 advanced from the HHR committee and passed the Senate. It now moves to the House for consideration.
SB 778 relates to eligibility for homebound services for exceptional children. The purpose of this bill is to remove a significant barrier for families by ensuring that students receive timely educational support through allowing nurse practitioners and physicians assistants, as well as physicians, to certify eligibility for homebound services. The bill passed the full Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
SB 802 relates to school preparation days. The purpose of this bill is to prohibit a teacher from being required to use the school preparation days for any other purpose besides the preparation for the opening of school or for school closing; require noninstructional days to include two Leave Teachers Alone (LTA) days to be used as determined by classroom teachers for activities that will improve instruction; and require both of these days to be scheduled and occur before the beginning of the instructional term. The bill passed the full Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
The Committee Substitute for SB 804 relates to removing physical education requirements for certain middle and high school athletes. The bill allows sports to count for PE requirements in middle school and high school. The Committee Substitute clarifies the language for these student athletes and advanced from the Senate Education Committee. The bill passed the full Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
SB 890 changes certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours. A committee substitute was brought before the committee. Senator Oliverio discussed the potential impact of this bill for retirement, and Education WV has expressed this concern as well. Most senators spoke in favor of flexibility and local control. Senator Tarr amended (passed) to reflect (18-7a-3) employment term defined as month to 20 days or 160 hours. The bill passed the Senate and awaits consideration by the House.
SB 899 permits g certain teachers to be certified to work as school principals. A committee substitute was brought before the committee. The bill permits teachers with 15 years of experience at the elementary, high school, or middle school level to be certified to be principals at the levels they have taught in for the minimum of 15 years. A WVDE representative was called to testify before the Senate Education Committee, and stated the committee substitute will include a “crash course” program for principals to address topics to be included including school law, finance, etc. The committee substitute passed the Senate and the bill now moves to the House for consideration.
SB 913 removes the annual report requirement for WV Research Trust Fund. This bill eliminates reporting requirements for the WV Research Trust Fund (once known as Bucks for Brains) because there is no longer a balance in the fund. The bill keeps the program in place in case the state wants to revive it in the future. The bill passed the Senate and moves to the House for consideration.
SB 925 provides that Future Farmers of America-sanctioned activities not count toward limit of excused absences. The bill passed the Senate and moves to the House for consideration.
Com. Sub. for SB 1020 allows up to five educational leave days within definition of "excused absence.” The bill passed the Senate and moves to the House for consideration.
Committee Substitute for HB 4014, the Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act, establishes WV Micro-Credential programs and expands apprentice training tax credits. The Committee Substitute moves the Micro-Credentials program under Higher Education instead of Workforce. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4087 creates a WV-Ireland Education Alliance. This bill strengthens academic, cultural and workforce connections and offers five $50,000 grants between two-year and four-year schools. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4395 relating to investigations of allegations of child safety violations for school personnel. This provides the investigations shall continue even if the employee transfers to another school or resigns prior to the investigation being complete. The bill passed the House and moves to the Senate for consideration.
HB 4656 addresses chronic absenteeism. This bill creates a Student Support Specialist in each county to work with students with chronic absenteeism. The bill also looks at preventative measures for intervention rather than punitive measures. The bill passed the and awaits consideration by the Senate.
HB 4798 requires teachers to wear a "mobile alert button" for emergency situations, to be known as "Alyssa's Law." This bill would require the alert button to be worn by all teachers, and the funding would come from private donations and administered by the Department of Homeland Security. Four counties in WV already use this system for educators. A Committee Substitute was offered that makes this permissive instead of required. Since it is now permissive, the Committee on Finance has agreed to waive the second reference. The bill passed the House and moves to the Senate for consideration.
HB 5012 providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. A Committee Substitute addressed the concerns of Education West Virginia, and now only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
Bills that have advanced from a committee
SB 11 allows certain Teachers Retirement System members to exchange unused leave for monetary compensation. The bill provides a cash bonus in exchange for up to 10 days unused days of personal leave. This bill passed the Senate last year but failed to make it across the finish line in the House. SB 11 passed the Senate Education Committee and moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 67 adds language that was inadvertently overwritten when the bill addressing this topic was previously passed. The bill will allow authorization and funding of alternative high-risk population public charter schools; provide eligibility requirements to be an alternative high risk population public charter school; specify which students are included as "high risk"; require West Virginia Board of Education rule setting forth requirements for alternative high risk population charter school funding; allow an institution of higher education to apply to an authorizer to establish virtual or on-campus public charter microschools; allow any public charter school to partner with learning pods and microschools to provide instruction to those learning pods and microschools; and make other changes to the public charter school law. The bill would allow public charter schools to have the right of first refusal for any unused public school buildings. A committee substitute was adopted and the bill was advanced from the Select Committee on School Choice and referred to the Senate Finance Committee.
SB 102 establishes the Summer Feeding for All Program. This bill looks for innovative ways to provide assistance to students in need during summer break and other times. The bill was advanced from the Senate Education Committee and now awaits consideration by the Senate Finance Committee.
Com. Sub. for SB 114 creates a Paid Parental Leave Pilot Program benefit program for employees of county boards of education. It allows for 12 weeks of paid parental leave, for the care of biological, foster and adopted children. The bill was advanced by the Senate Health and Human Resources Committee and moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 170 allows a county board of education participating in a multicounty vocational center to determine that a career technical education program be part of the local high school and allows the program to be a state-approved program of study or a locally created program of study. The Senate Select Committee on School Choice advanced the bill without recommendation and it now awaits consideration by the Senate Education and Finance Committees.
Committee Substitute for SB 176 increases non-traditional instructional days for WV teachers from 5 to 10. The bill advanced from the committee and now moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 196 relates generally to liability insurance coverage for boards of education. A Committee Substitute for SB 196 was advanced by the committee, and the bill now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 216 creates the Restoring Private Schools Act of 2026. This bill gives vast autonomy to private schools. It removes requirements such as vaccinations, instructional days, attendance documentation, and assessments. During the Senate Select Committee on School Choice, Senator Clements offered an amendment requiring standardized assessments, with results available to parents. The amendment failed. Senator Woelfel offered an amendment requiring schools to require and keep immunization records. The amendment failed. The bill passed the committee and will move to the Senate floor for consideration.
Committee Substitute for SB 232 establishes WV Secondary School Athletic Trainer & Career Technical Education Program Act. The bill advanced and now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
Com. Sub. for SB 402 creates the Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act. This bill was introduced at the request of the Governor. The bill includes establishment of a Micro-Credentialing Program, expands the apprenticeship training tax credits, and eliminates barriers to professional licensures for military trained applicants. A committee substitute for the original com sub was offered for technical cleanup and passed the Senate. The bill awaits consideration by the House.
SB 428 creates three separate job titles for school bus operators (pay scale based on experience) and includes cafeteria managers (class D & E). This bill is intended as a retention incentive. The bill passed the Senate Education Committee and now awaits consideration by the Senate Finance Committee.
SB 437 creates the Fair State Aid Formula Act of 2026. The bill provides an equitable method of distributing state aid to county boards of education, recognizes the additional costs associated with rural, small, and high-need schools, and promotes fairness, transparency, and adequacy in education funding. A committee substitute was adopted by the Senate Education Committee and advanced to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 502 creates the Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act. The purpose of this bill is to protect and sustain women’s collegiate Olympic sports programs through permanent endowment funding, reward verified institutional efficiencies; incentivize private investment through targeted tax credits; and ensure full compliance with federal Title IX requirements. A committee substitute was advanced from the Senate Education Committee. The bill is on second reading in the Senate.
SB 644 requires the state treasurer participate in the federal tax credit for scholarship granting organizations. No discussion or amendments by the committee and the bill advanced to the full Senate, where it is now on third reading.
Com. Sub. for SB 657 creates the Cohen Craddock Student Athlete Safety Act, which requires the use of certain safety equipment during school organized football participation. A committee substitute was adopted and advanced from the Senate Education Committee. The bill now moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 683 removes the requirement that a kindergarten, preschool, or school education program operated by a private, parochial, or church school be recognized by West Virginia Department of Education Policy 2330 in order to be exempt from the section of code imposing certain childcare related licensure, approval, certification, and registration requirements. The bill advanced from the Select Committee on School Choice and now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
Com. Sub. for SB 689 originally called for reducing grade levels in which student is allowed to transfer schools. During the committee meeting there was confusion within the committee about the title of the bill. The title will be amended. The com sub relates to the Home School Athletic Organization. The bill passed Senate Education and is on third reading on the Senate floor.
SB 801 calls for increasing each school district’s basic foundation. The bill increases the staff per pupil ration from 72.3 per 1000 students to 75.3/1000 professionals. The bill also increases the service personnel ratio from 54.35/1000 to 57.35/1000. The bill does not penalize counties for the ratios during the 2025-2026 school year. The fiscal note based on last year’s enrollment numbers statewide is about $95 million. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 929 requires the State Auditor issue notice of noncompliance to county boards for untimely reports. This bill would tie school financial reporting to state funding. It requires the West Virginia State Auditor to issue a notice of noncompliance if a county board fails to submit its annual financial statement within 90 days after the end of the fiscal year. If the board remains non-compliant for more than 60 additional days, it would be ineligible to receive discretionary state funding until compliance is achieved. There was a committee substitute for this bill that was unavailable at the time of this report. Senator Jay Taylor (Taylor Co.) proposed a successful amendment to the com. sub. that would help make sure (financial) issues are being caught ahead of time. The Com. Sub. for SB 929 advanced from Senate Education and is on third reading on the Senate floor.
SB 966 changes the requirements for home school instruction. The bill eliminates numerous homeschooling guidelines including a requirement that any specific subjects are taught, eliminates the recordkeeping requirement on instructional records by parents, eliminates the requirement that the parent have a high school education or GED, eliminates any requirements for assessments or achievement tests. The bill advanced from the Select Committee on School Choice. The bill was on second reading on 2/27 but was removed from the calendar.
SB 1017 establishes the Charter School Direct Loan Program and the Charter School Credit Enhancement Program. The state Economic Development Authority would oversee these funds, which could come from either private or government sources. There was no discussion nor amendments by the committee and the bill advanced from the Select Committee on School Choice. It will now move to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 1024 allows the rescission or reversal of school closure decisions through July 15 when new financial, enrollment, facility, or community information becomes available. The bill passed Senate Education and is on third reading on the Senate floor.
SB 1044 requires the Board of Education to promulgate rule that sets forth common graduation requirements. The bill adds pathways to the minimum 16 credits of general graduation requirements. The bill passed Senate Education and is on third reading on the Senate floor.
SB 1048 transfers responsibility of school position eliminations to WV Board of Education. The bill requires the West Virginia Board of Education to identify school personnel positions for elimination based on county boards’ determinations of need. The state board would determine if a county employs more staff than allowed under the foundation allowance formulas, and counties must justify how they pay for any excess staff. When eliminating positions, the state board must consider class sizes, bus route length, input from the affected county, and other relevant factors. A Committee Substitute was advanced from Senate Education and was referred to the Senate Finance Committee.
Com. Sub. for SB 1061 removes the prohibition against reassigning school personnel in certain instances. The Com. Sub mirrors the Com. Sub for HB 5012 which only allows movement after the last day of the second month if a shift in student population leaves a teacher or service professional without any students. The bill passed Senate Education and is on third reading on the Senate floor.
SB 1064 redefines "long-term substitute" as it relates to public school personnel. The bill refers to the position, not the employee and allows flexibility to keep a sub in a position for more than 30 days without posting it. The bill passed Senate Education and is on third reading on the Senate floor.
Com. Sub. for SB 1077 is intended to protect vocational education agriculture programs. The bill passed Senate Education and is on third reading on the Senate floor.
HB 4425 to repeal the provision allowing students to transfer from one school to another without losing eligibility. The bill repeals the current transfer rule for athletics. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and is on first reading on the House floor.
HB 4485 allows education employees to donate sick leave to co-workers for maternity leave. The bill adds both maternity leave and compliances to the federal Family Leave Act guidelines. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and awaits consideration by the House Finance Committee.
HB 4768 relating to updating definitions to incorporate federal law changes to qualified higher education expenses for purposes of 529 accounts. Adds public schools to the definition of eligible educational institutions in which the money may be used. The bill is on third reading in the House.
HB 4817 relating to modifying the Charter Schools Startup Fund. The bill offers an additional $100,000 to Charter Schools that receive the initial startup fund of $300,000. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and now moves to the Committee on Finance for consideration.
HB 5048 ensures virtual instruction for foster students while in temporary placement facilities. The bill provides virtual learning through the county the student was last enrolled. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and is on third reading in the House.
Com. Sub. for HB 5089 providing for verification mastery of content standards for transcripts when a student enrolls or re-enrolls in a public school. A Committee Substitute was adopted to clarify that each public school shall review the class, grade, and source on the student's public-school transcript. It also requires reports made to LOCEA of the demographics of students who re-enroll into public schools in the state and whether they attended homeschooling, charter, private, micro or a HOPE program. The bill was advanced by the House Education Committee and is on first reading on the House floor.
HB 5163 relating to exempting child-care programs operated by a county BoE exclusively for the children of its employees from certain licensing requirements. A Committee Substitute was adopted that allows the State BoE to promulgate rules for child-care in the school for employees and students. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and is on second reading on the House floor.
HB 5321 guarantees timely educational evaluations and continuity of services for children entering foster care. The bill changes the time frame from 80 days to 30 days. A Committee Substitute was adopted to streamline the process for foster students needing an IEP. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and awaits consideration by the full House.
HB 5354 relating to authorizing legislative rules regarding higher education. The bill strikes outdated language and adds mental health loan program and the STAND program. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and awaits consideration by the full House.
HB 5412 creates the Future Ready Education Act. This bill requires teachers in K-5 to be trained in literacy instruction and allow the Department of Education to retain funds not exceeding $7,100,000 from the Governor to develop and provide training. A Committee Substitute was offered to ensure the funding to train the teachers. The committee substitute advanced from the House Education Committee and now moves House Finance for consideration.
HB 5453 modifies the school aid funding formula. The bill provides for a $6,500/student lump sum amount, a three-tier funding system for special education students and provides for a uniform budget system for the department of education. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and awaits consideration by the House Finance Committee.
HB 5463 relates to decreasing Board of Education Limits. The bill reduces the BRIM limits from $1.25 million to $1 million. It also removes the additional $5 million the board is required to carry. The bill is on second reading before the House.
HB 5511 allows money to be paid to nominee BoE employee's states for accrued and unused leave if they pass away before retirement. This bill provides for a lump sum not to exceed $6,000 to the family for unused sick days at death. The bill advanced from the House Finance Committee and is on first reading in the House.
Com. Sub. for HB 5537 repeals obsolete and outdated sections of the education code. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and is on second reading on the House floor.
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Daily Updates
Friday, February 20, 2026 – 38th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 250: Budget Bill
Com. Sub. for SB 814: Supplemental appropriation to State Board of Education, fund 0313 (original similar to HB 5310)
SB 841: Supplemental Appropriation to State Board of Education, fund 3951 (original similar to HB 5308)
SB 871: Supplemental appropriation to State Board of Education, fund 3517
All four bills passed.
Second Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 890: Changing certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours. Advanced to third reading.
Com. Sub. for SB 899: Permitting certain teachers to be certified to work as school principals. A committee substitute was brought before the committee. The bill permits teachers with 15 years of experience at the elementary, high school, or middle school level to be certified to be principals at the levels they have taught in for the minimum of 15 years. A WVDE representative was called to testify before the Senate Education Committee, and stated the committee substitute will include a “crash course” program for principals to address topics to be included including school law, finance, etc.
Eng. HB 4575: Making Supplemental Appropriation to State Board of Education – (Com. amend. pending). Barrett, Finance Chair: Finance made a technical strike and insert amendment by striking everything after the enacting clause and changed it to reflect that funds are going to Hancock County Schools. Weld moved to amend the amendment—changing the header to include Hancock County Schools—clarifies intent of the bill. Amendment to the amendment adopted. The bill advanced to third reading.
First Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 558 modifies penalties for school bus safety violations by vehicle operators.
SB 913: Removing annual report requirement for WV Research Trust Fund. This bill eliminates reporting requirements for the WV Research Trust Fund (once known as Bucks for Brains) because the there is no longer a balance in the fund. The bill keeps the program in place in case the state wants to revive it in the future.
SB 925: Providing Future Farmers of America-sanctioned activities not count toward limit of excused absences.
All three bills advanced to second reading.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
On third reading in the House Floor Session was the Committee Substitute for HB 5212. The bill deletes outdate scholarships and updates current scholarship opportunities. The bill passed by a vote of 95-1 with 4 members absent.
Second Reading
The Committee Substitute for HB 4087 creating a West Virginia-Ireland Education Alliance was on second reading. The bill will create $50,000 grant opportunities for 2-year and 4-year institutions. The bill advances to third reading.
First Reading
HB 4591 to recognize School Athletic Directors who have achieved a nationally recognized professional certificate through the NIAAA to be eligible for a salary bonus.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4656 relating to chronic absenteeism. The bill looks at preventative measures rather than punitive measures. The court system is still involved after a specific number of absences.
Both bills advanced to second reading.
Committee Meetings
Finance
Today in House Finance the Originating Bill on the Hope Scholarship was up for markup and passage. The bill caps the amount of the scholarship to $5,250, restricts it to West Virginia schools, puts restrictions on the usage, and requires homeschool students with an IEP to take the summative assessments. The bill was taken off the agenda and the committee adjourned.
Education
Markup and Passage
HB 4588 relating to participating in the federal tax credit scholarship program. This would allow people to receive a tax credit for putting money into a scholarship program under the Trump “Big, beautiful bill.” A Committee Substitute was adopted to identify qualifying scholarship granting organizations and establish rule for these granting organizations. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 4588 be reported to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the Committee on Finance was adopted.
HB 4995 requiring the use of video cameras in certain special education classrooms. This adds all connecting and/or support areas including sensory rooms. The Committee Substitute made several changes in the bill including not adding additional cameras, adding back the language that it cannot be used for evaluations, changing the days required viewing from 90 days to 30 days, and notice to the parent if there is any interruption in the recording. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 4995 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary was adopted.
HB 5012 providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. A Committee Substitute was adopted that clarifies that no transfer shall take place after the last day of the second month unless student population shifts result in a teacher or service professional being without any instructional responsibilities or work assignments. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 5012 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
HB 5478 establishing a statewide pilot program to improve kindergarten readiness. This bill provides for a Touchpad pilot program for at-risk pre-K children. The at-risk children are identified in the bill. The motion to report HB 5478 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the Committee on Finance was adopted.
Committee Hearing
On the Committee Hearing stage was HB 4395 requiring all investigations of child safety violations and child welfare risks continue for all school personnel regardless of whether the accused moved to a different job or school. This pertains to schools and school boards. This would pertain to transfers within the county or out of county. The bill now advances to the markup and passage stage in the committee.
Thursday, February 19, 2026 – 37th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4982 creates the Make WV Healthy Act of 2026. Amendments offered by both the Senate Health and Human Resources Committee & Senator Deeds were adopted on second reading. Establishes a statewide healthy framework to improve the health of West Virginians. The bill passed. The bill goes back to the House where the Senate requests the House concur with their amendments.
Second Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 250: Budget Bill
Com. Sub. for SB 814: Supplemental appropriation to State Board of Education, fund 0313 (original similar to HB 5310)
SB 841: Supplemental Appropriation to State Board of Education, fund 3951 (original similar to HB 5308)
SB 871: Supplemental appropriation to State Board of Education, fund 3517
These bills all advanced to third reading.
First Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 890: Changing certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours
Com. Sub. for SB 899: Permitting certain teachers to be certified to work as school principals
Eng. HB 4575: Making Supplemental Appropriation to State Board of Education - (Com. amend. pending)
These bill all advanced to second reading.
Committee Meetings
Education
SB 913: Removing annual report requirement for WV Research Trust Fund. This bill eliminates reporting requirements for the WV Research Trust Fund (once known as Bucks for Brains) because the there is no longer a balance in the fund. The bill keeps the program in place in case the state wants to revive it in the future. The bill advanced from the committee and moves to the full Senate for consideration.
SB 925: Providing Future Farmers of America-sanctioned activities not count toward limit of excused absences. The bill advanced from the committee and moves to the full Senate for consideration.
Finance
Com. Sub. for SB 402: Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act. This bill was introduced at the request of the Governor. The bill includes establishment of a Micro-Credentialing Program, expand the apprenticeship training tax credits, and eliminates barriers to professional licensures for military trained applicants. A committee substitute for the original com sub was offered for technical cleanup. The bill advanced from the committee and now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Today on the House Floor HB 4765, the Teacher, School Personnel, and State Police Pay Raise was on third reading and up for passage. The bill provides for a $1,560 increase for teachers, $87 per month for service professionals, and a 3% pay increase for State Police. The bill passed with a vote of 95-0 with 5 members absent.
Second Reading
On second reading was the Committee Substitute for HB 5212 relating to financial aid for post-secondary education. This bill is a series of strikethroughs And updates scholarship opportunities. The bill advances to third reading.
First Reading
The following bill was on first reading:
The Committee Substitute for HB 4087 creating a WV-Ireland Education Alliance. This bill strengthens academic, cultural and workforce connections and offers five $50,000 grants between two-year and four-year schools. The bill advances to second reading.
Committee Meetings
Education
Today in the House Education Committee the following bills were on markup and passage:
HB 4485 allowing education employees to donate sick leave to co-workers for maternity leave. A committee substitute was offered that aligns the leave more with with the FLA. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 4485 be reported to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the Committee on Finance was adopted.
HB 4798 requiring teachers to wear a "mobile alert button" for emergency situations, to be known as "Alyssa's Law." This bill would require the alert button to be worn by all teachers, and the funding would come from private donations and administered by the Department on Homeland Security. Four counties in WV already use this system for educators. A Committee Substitute was offered that makes this permissive instead or required. Since it is now permissive, the Committee on Finance has agreed to waive the second reference. The motion to adopt the Committee Substitute for HB 4798 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
HB 5110 to amend the section of code providing for waiver of tuition and fees for older persons auditing certain college classes. This bill changes the age from 65 to 60. The motion to report HB 5110 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Committee on Finance was adopted. The Committee will ask the Finance Committee to waive the second reference.
HB 5412 creates the Future Ready Education Act. This bill requires teachers in K-5 to be trained in literacy instruction and allow the Department of Education to retain funds not exceeding $7,100,000 from the Governor to develop and provide training. A Committee Substitute was offered to ensure the funding to train the teachers. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 5412 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the Committee on Finance was adopted.
HB 5438 to modify the foundation allowance to improve instructional programs. This bill requires the State Department of Education to implement a uniform budgeting system and requires the Governor to provide funding in each budget for the appropriation for the Third Grade Success Act. A Committee Substitute was adopted that removes outdated language and authorized up to $15 million annually to implement and sustains the system. It also removes additional language related to full support of the Third Grade Success Act and permits county boards to use up to 50% of the allocation designated for teacher leader instruction with the Safe School Fund. The motion to report the Committee Substitute to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the Committee on Finance was adopted.
On the Committee hearing stage were:
HB 4588 relating to participating in the federal tax credit scholarship program. This would coincide with the newly created federal guidelines under the “Big, Beautiful Bill.”
HB 5478 establishing a statewide pilot program to improve kindergarten readiness. This bill establishes a pilot program to provide Touchpads for eligible children. Eligible child is defined in the bill as ages of three and four and falls below the federal poverty level and other risk factors.
Both bills now move to markup and passage.
Wednesday, February 18, 2026 – 36th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
SB 778 – Relating to eligibility for homebound services for exceptional children. The purpose of this bill is to remove a significant barrier for families by ensuring that students receive timely educational support through allowing nurse practitioners and physicians assistants, as well as physicians, to certify eligibility for homebound services. The bill passed the full Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
SB 802 – Relating to school preparation days. The purpose of this bill is to prohibit a teacher from being required to use the school preparation days for any other purpose besides the preparation for the opening of school or for school closing; require noninstructional days to include two Leave Teachers Alone (LTA) days to be used as determined by classroom teachers for activities that will improve instruction; and require both of these days to be scheduled and occur before the beginning of the instructional term. The bill passed the full Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
Second Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4982 creates the Make WV Healthy Act of 2026. Amendments offered by both the Senate Health and Human Resources Committee & Senator Deeds were adopted and bill advanced to third reading.
First Reading
- Com. Sub. for SB 250: Budget Bill
- Com. Sub. for SB 814: Supplemental appropriation to State Board of Education, fund 0313 (original similar to HB 5310)
- SB 841: Supplemental Appropriation to State Board of Education, fund 3951 (original similar to HB 5308)
- SB 871: Supplemental appropriation to State Board of Education, fund 3517
These bills all advanced to second reading.
Committee Meetings
No meetings to report.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Second Reading
Today on the House Floor, HB 4765 the Teacher, School Personnel, and State Police Pay Raise was on second reading. The bill provides for a $1,560 raise for teachers, $87 per month for service professionals, and a 3% raise for State Police. Three amendments were offered by Delegates Hornbuckle, Williams, et al to provide raises for retirees and other enhancements were ruled not germane since these are the only three classes named specifically in state code. The bill now advances to third reading.
First Reading
On first reading was the Committee Substitute for HB 5212 to revise, update, and streamline the requirements for higher education grants, scholarships, loans, and financial aid for postsecondary education programs, workforce development initiatives, and workforce grants. The bill is a series of strikethroughs and redefines various scholarship opportunities. The bill advanced to second reading.
Committee Meetings
Judiciary
Today in House Judiciary, HB 4656 relating to chronic absenteeism was up for markup and passage. A Committee Substitute was adopted that shifts the focus of student chronic absenteeism from punitive measures to preventive measures. It removes truancy as a status offense and provides for wraparound services may be initiated upon the 5th absence. The Com. Sub. also defines "wraparound services." It also sets forth a process and timeline for transition from truancy as a status offense to chronic absenteeism as a child in need of supervision. The Com. Sub. retains circuit court jurisdiction under a new category for intervention. Finally, the Com. Sub. defines "student support specialist" and clarifies that a truancy diversion specialist is included in the definition. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 4656 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
Finance
In House Finance, an originating bill concerning the Hope Scholarship was presented on the hearing stage. The bill caps the Hope Scholarship amount to a flat $5,250, changes the payout to four (4) times a year instead of two (2), will only pay to in-state private schools, deletes many of the current uses for the Hope Scholarship, and provides for homeschool students with an IEP must take the statewide assessment given in the public schools. There are other measures in the bill but since it was an originating bill on the Committee Hearing stage, a copy of the bill was not available at the time of committee.
Education
In the Education Committee, the following bills were up for markup and passage:
HB 4591 recognizing School Athletic Directors who have achieved a nationally recognized professional certification through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators. A Committee Substitute was adopted. The bill encourages achievement of this certification through reimbursement of expenses and salary increases to those that have this certification. The motion to report the bill to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
HB 4693 to declassify Community and Technical Education (CTE) teaching positions to allow for counties to provide additional funding for certain positions. A Committee Substitute was adopted. The Committee Substitute states counties may declassify career technical education instructors for increasing compensation if the county board lists the positions as a critical need and shortage area. The motion to report the bill to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Committee on Finance was adopted.
On the Committee Hearing stage:
HB 4798 requiring teachers to wear a "mobile alert button" for emergency situations, to be known as "Alyssa's Law." The Committee Substitute creates a fund within the state budget, and the funding is to come from the Department of Homeland Security and private donations. Four of our counties are already using this technology. The bill now advances to markup and passage.
HB 5110 amending the section providing for a waiver of tuition and fees for older persons auditing certain college classes. The bill moves the age for this from 65 to 60. The bill now advances to markup and passage.
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 – 35th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Second Reading
SB 778 – Relating to eligibility for homebound services for exceptional children. The purpose of this bill is to remove a significant barrier for families by ensuring that students receive timely educational support through allowing nurse practitioners and physicians assistants, as well as physicians, to certify eligibility for homebound services. The bill advanced to third reading.
SB 802 – Relating to school preparation days. The purpose of this bill is to prohibit a teacher from being required to use the school preparation days for any other purpose besides the preparation for the opening of school or for school closing; require noninstructional days to include two Leave Teachers Alone (LTA) days to be used as determined by classroom teachers for activities that will improve instruction; and require both of these days to be scheduled and occur before the beginning of the instructional term. The bill advanced to third reading.
First Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4982: Make West Virginia Healthy Act of 2026. The bill advanced to second reading with committee amendments pending.
Committee Meetings
Education
SB 890: Changing certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours. A committee substitute was brought before the committee. Senator Oliverio discussed the potential impact of this bill for retirement. Most senators spoke in favor of the flexibility and local control participation. Senator Tarr amended (passed) to reflect (18-7a-3) employment term defined as month to 20 days or 160 hours. Senator Oliverio was lone vote against amendment and the bill. The bill advanced and moves to the full Senate for consideration.
SB 899: Permitting certain teachers to be certified to work as school principals. A committee substitute was brought before the committee. The bill permit teachers with 15 years of experience at the elementary, high school, or middle school level to be certified to be principals at the levels they have taught in for the minimum of 15 years. A WVDE representative was called to testify before the committee, and stated the committee substitute will include a “crash course” program for principals to address topics to be included including school law, finance, etc. The bill advanced from the committee and now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
Health and Human Resources
SB 745: Relating to requirements for school nutrition programs. A committee substitute was brought before the committee adds additional restrictions on dyes, and provisions limiting sugars, requiring menus posted, provisions for waivers of products are not available. The school nutrition director from Fayette County spoke and remarked that the bill has some positive impacts despite challenges to find some products; however, also said the timeline of the bill may make it less impactful and manageable. They remarked that USDA is already in the process of reconfiguring guidelines. The Committee Substitute for SB 745 advanced from the committee and moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
Finance
The Finance Committee considered HB 4575 today, which makes supplemental appropriation to state board of education for the purposes of assisting Hancock County with payroll and other obligations during amid their local financial crisis. The Chair and committee members made it clear that they expect the $8 million dollars for Hancock to be a loan, and to be paid back at the some point. Discussion indicated that there is a companion bill in Senate Ed to ensure the funding will be a loan. HB 4575 simply appropriates the money to Hancock County. The bill advanced the committee and will be reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
In the House Floor session, the following bills were on third reading:
The Committee Substitute for HB 4573 the Foster Youth Post-Secondary Transition Awareness Act. The bill is to ensure WV students with current or former foster care receive consultant information about education opportunities, jobs, etc. The bill passed by a vote of 95-0 with 4 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4592 relating to college campus safety. The bill provides for safety mapping data for higher education institutions and school crisis response planning. The bill passed by a vote of 95-0 with 4 members absent.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4999, relating to crimes against athletic officials. The bill adds "participants" and other school personnel to the language. The bill passed by a vote of 93-0 with 6 members absent.
First Reading
On first reading was HB 4765, the teacher, school personnel, and State Police Pay Raise. The bill provides a $1560 raise for teachers, $87 per month for service personnel and an average 3% raise for State Police. The bill now advances to second reading.
Committee Meetings
Judiciary
Today in the House Judiciary Committee, HB 4656 relating to chronic absenteeism was on the Committee Hearing phase. The bill shifts the absenteeism focus from punitive to preventative and clarifies the statutory provisions and procedures for chronic absenteeism. The bill also names a Student Support Specialist in each county. The bill now moves to markup and passage.
Public Education Subcommittee
In the House Subcommittee on Public Education, the following bills were on markup and passage:
HB 4402 relating to school protection officers. The bill authorizes the sheriff to provide training for school protection officers and clarifies the appointment and qualifications for the school protection officers. A strike and insert amendment was offered changes the name of the school prevention officer to school protection officer. The motion to report HB 4402 as amended to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Standing Committee on Education was adopted.
HB 4798 requiring teachers to wear a “mobile alert button” for emergency situations, to be known as “Alyssa’s Law.” The mobile alert button will be connected to the county 911. A strike and insert amendment was offered that states the State Board shall promulgate a rule regarding the button and it’s contingent upon funding. The funding would come from the Department of Homeland Security through appropriations and/or private donations. The motion to report HB 4798 as amended to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Standing Committee on Education was adopted.
On Committee Hearing stage today was HB 5005 providing liability protection for video cameras in certain classrooms. The bill states that there shall be no damages exceeding $250,000 unless clear and convincing evidence that the board was deliberately in indifferent. The bill now advances to markup and passage. A motion to take the bill up immediately was adopted. The motion to report HB 5005 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the Standing Committee on Education
Education Committee
In the Standing Committee on Education, HB 5453 to modify the school aid funding formula, was up for markup and passage. The bill allows for a block grant of $8,000 per student to counties with a minimum funding of 1200 students. The bill also provides for a three (3) tier funding for special needs students. It also allows county boards to request additional funding from the state BoE for items like transportation. A strike and insert amendment was offered. The amendment changes the funding from $8,000 to $6,500, changes the supplemental amount, and adds the definition of maladministration which mirrors the language in a previous bill. The motion to report Committee Substitute for HB 5453 to the floor with the recommendation It do pass but first be reported to the Committee on Finance was adopted.
The following bills were on the Committee Hearing stage:
HB 5438 to modify the foundation allowance to improve instructional programs. The bill allows for the Department of Education to appropriate up to $15 million to implement and fund annually a replacement uniform budgeting and accounting system. The bill also mandates the funding and implementation of the Third Grade Success annually.
HB 5412 is the Future Ready Education Act. This bill provides for instructional, educational support, and tutoring resources for starved and teachers for digital literacy, reading mathematics, science, career-technical education, and internet safety. It provides funding from the Department of Education for literacy instruction training for teachers in grades K-5. Finally, it requires educators in K-5 to be enrolled in approved professional learning in literacy instruction. EWV Co-President Dale Lee spoke to the bill and has concerns about the funding of the expansion and the time and resources to train the educators.
Monday, February 16, 2026 – 34th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 804 – Removing physical education requirements for certain middle and high school athletes. The bill allows sports to count for PE requirements in middle school and high school. The bill passed the Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
First Reading
SB 778 – Relating to eligibility for homebound services for exceptional children. The purpose of this bill is to remove a significant barrier for families by ensuring that students receive timely educational support through allowing nurse practitioners and physicians assistants, as well as physicians, to certify eligibility for homebound services.
SB 802 – Relating to school preparation days. The purpose of this bill is to prohibit a teacher from being required to use the school preparation days for any other purpose besides the preparation for the opening of school or for school closing; require noninstructional days to include two Leave Teachers Alone (LTA) days to be used as determined by classroom teachers for activities that will improve instruction; and require both of these days to be scheduled and occur before the beginning of the instructional term.
Both bills advanced to second reading. No committee meetings to report on today.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Today on the House floor, Committee Substitute for HB 4996, relating to bail in cases involving terroristic threats to schools or children, passed by a vote of 96-0 with 3 members absent. The bill restricts the accused from residing within 1000 feet of a school and shall have no contact, direct or indirect, with any student, school employee or any other person associated with the threatened school.
Second Reading
The Committee Substitute for HB 4592 relating to college campus safety. The bill provides for safety mapping data for higher education institutions and school crisis response planning. The bill advances to third reading.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4573 the Foster Youth Post-Secondary Transition Awareness Act. The bill is to ensure WV students with current or former foster care receive consultant information about education opportunities, jobs, etc.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4999, relating to crimes against athletic officials. The bill adds "participants" and other school personnel to the language. The bill advances to third reading.
Committee Meetings
House Finance
Today in House Finance, HB 4765, the teacher, school personnel, and state police pay raise bill, was discussed. The bill would provide a $1,560 raise for teachers and an $87/month increase for service personnel. The bill passed the committee with no amendments and no discussion. The bill will now be reported to the full House with the recommendation it do pass.
House Education
Reports from Subcommittees
In House Education today, the following bills were reported from the subcommittees:
HB 4062 creating the WV Homeschool Student Athletics Participation Act, HB 4065 relating to the membership of the Hope Scholarship Board, HB 4395 all investigations into allegations of child safety violations and child welfare risks continue for all school personnel regardless of whether the accused moved to a different job or school, HB 4834 permitting women's wrestling in public high schools as a sanctioned event, HB 4871 making available vegetarian meal option for students enrolled in schools, provided that such meals comply with all applicable federal nutrition guidelines, and HB 4950 establishing the WV Freedom and Innovation Pilot Act of 2026. These bills can now be placed on the full Education Committee agenda.
Markup and Passage
HB 5212 to revise, update and streamline the requirements for higher ed grants, scholarships, loans and financial aid for postsecondary education programs, workforce development initiatives, and workforce grants. The bill is a series of strike through and new policies for higher ed institutions. A Committee Substitute was offered to allow for people with a degree to apply for a grant if going into the EMT field. The Committee Substitute was adopted. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 5212 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
HB 4817 relating to modifying the Charter Schools Startup Fund. The bill offers an additional $100,000 to Charter Schools that receive the initial startup fund of $300,000. The motion to report the bill to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Committee on Finance was adopted.
Committee Hearing
The following bills were on the Committee Hearing stage:
HB 5012 providing for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. A Committee Substitute will be offered to address the concerns of Education West Virginia. The Superintendent's Association spoke in support of the bill in the original form. EWV Co-President Dale Lee spoke and thanked the Chair for the opportunity to work on the agreed to language of the forthcoming Committee Substitute. The bill now advances to markup and passage stage.
HB 5089 providing for verified mastery of content standards for transcripts when a student enrolls or re-enrolls in a public school. The bill allows for the public school to only accept the student’s placement after mastery verification. The bill now advances to markup and passage in the full committee.
HB 5453 modifying the school aid funding formula. This bill provides a block grant of $8,000 per student, minimum funding for 1,200 students, and a three (3) tier funding for special education students. Counties may also request additional funding from the state Department of Education for various reasons. Co-President Lee spoke to the bill to have safeguards in place for many or the things in 18 and 18-A such as the salary schedule, retirement, etc. The bill now advances to the markup and passage stage in the full committee.
These bills now advance to the full committee for markup and passage.
2026 Legislature: Weekly Wrap Up 2-20-26
We are officially past the halfway point of the 2026 session, and the pace of committee action is beginning to speed up. Bills are starting to move to floor votes, and the House quickly passed a pay raise bill on Thursday and originated a bill to put guardrails on the HOPE Scholarship (read more below).
Subcommittees continue to be actively discussing and moving bills forward to the standing committees, where we expect to see an increase in bills advancing as well.
Please note that introduced bills are generally not reported on in the weekly wrap up until they are on a committee agenda and considered active. Education WV holds daily morning briefings with co-presidents and headquarters staff not only to prepare for the legislative day ahead, but also to review and assess all introduced legislation, its impact on our members and our strategy to promote passage, defeat or amendment of the bill.
Pay Raise Bill Passes House, Still No Action from Lawmakers on PEIA
On Thursday, the House passed HB 4765, the teacher, school personnel, and state trooper pay raise bill. The bill provides for a $1,560 increase for teachers, $87 per month for service professionals, and a 3% pay increase for State Police. The bill passed with a vote of 95-0 with 5 members absent. The bill will now move to the Senate, where Education WV will work to increase the amount of the increase, as Education WV Co-President Dale Lee explained in this WSAZ news interview.
Bills to address PEIA have yet to appear on a committee agenda, and affects the impact of any potential pay increase, continued Lee in this WCHS news interview. Education WV has been collaborating with lawmakers on bills to offer employees relief on PEIA, but committees have not considered these bills yet.
- SB 660 would remove the requirement that an employee pay the actuarial value for spousal PEIA coverage and instead require the employee to pay for the coverage based upon their salary and tier of coverage.
- SB 526 would modify the 80/20 method of calculation of the employer and employee contribution percentages for PEIA premiums. This change would be beneficial to employees and result in lower costs.
HOPE Scholarship
In House Finance, an originating bill concerning the Hope Scholarship was presented in the hearing stage on Wednesday. The bill caps the Hope Scholarship amount to a flat $5,250, changes the payout to four times a year instead of two, will only pay to in-state private schools, deletes some of the current uses for the Hope Scholarship, and provides that homeschool students with an IEP must take the statewide assessment given in the public schools. There are other measures in the bill but since it was an originating bill on the committee hearing stage, a copy of the bill was not available at the time of committee. Education WV believes this bill provides much needed boundaries in both the funding and implementation of the program. Read more about the reaction to this bill, including statements from our co-presidents in this WV MetroNews article. It is uncertain when the bill will come before the committee for action, but Education WV will keep our members informed of developments as they arise.
Bills that have passed both chambers
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 4982 creates the Make WV Healthy Act of 2026. The purpose of this bill is to establish and expand a coordinated, statewide Healthy Lifestyles framework to promote nutrition, farm to school initiatives, physical activity, and wellness through cross-agency collaboration, school-based initiatives, public-private partnerships, grants, and reporting requirements to improve the health of West Virginians. The bill had passed the House and amendments were adopted in the Senate, where the bill passed. It must now go back to the House as the House will need to decide whether to concur with the Senate amendments.
Bills that have passed one chamber
HB 4574 and HB 4575 have both passed the House. These two bills are the response to Hancock County’s financial crisis. While the House dispensed the rules and passed both bills on 1-19-26, the Senate chose to utilize the traditional process, and the bills will move through their committee references. HB 4574 was discussed in Senate Education and WV Superintendent of Schools Michelle Blatt answered questions from the committee. No action was taken and the bill was laid over for a future meeting. HB 4575 was considered and amended in Senate Finance this week, and advanced to the full Senate. During the Finance Committee meeting, the Chair and committee members made it clear that they expect the $8 million dollars for Hancock County to be a loan, and to be paid back at the some point. The bill is on second reading on the Senate floor on 2/20.
HB 4081 establishes the Higher Education Health and Aid Grant. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
Committee Substitute for HB 4002 establishes the WV Collaboratory, which facilitates the dissemination of policy and research expertise through WVU, Marshall University, and West Virginia State University. The bill passed the House and now awaits consideration by the Senate.
Committee Substitute for HB 4005, the Workforce Development Act of 2026, provides for apprenticeship programs for ages 16 through 18, and clarifies the categories of employment which are prohibited or authorized for those who are under the age of 16. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
HB 4422 permits students in the eighth and ninth grade to attend summer school in order to raise their grades and establish academic eligibility to play sports in the fall. The bill does not require counties to offer summer school but makes eighth and ninth graders eligible for those counties that offer summer school. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
HB 4573 is the Foster Youth Post-Secondary Transition Awareness Act. This bill requires school counselors and graduation coaches to provide guidance and training in post-secondary opportunities, workforce development, housing and aftercare services for students in the foster care system. The bill passed the full House and moves to the Senate for consideration.
HB 4592 requires safety mapping data for higher ed institutions and school crisis response planning. The bill passed the House and moves to the Senate for consideration.
HB 4996 relates to bail in cases involving terroristic threats to schools or children. A Committee Substitute was offered and creates mandatory bail conditions for individuals charged with making terrorist threats against a school, or a similar location including condition of bail or pretrial release that the defendant shall not reside within 1,000 feet of the boundary of any licensed child care center or school, GPS monitoring of the individuals charged, and mandates no contact, either direct or indirect, with any student, school employee, or any other person directly associated with or employed by the threatened facility. The Committee Substitute for HB 4996 passed the House and now moves to the Senate for consideration.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4999 relates to crimes against athletic officials. The bill adds "participants" and other school personnel to the language. The bill passed the House and moves to the Senate for consideration.
HB 5212 is a bill to revise, update and streamline the requirements for higher ed grants, scholarships, loans and financial aid for postsecondary education programs, workforce development initiatives, and workforce grants. The bill is a series of strike through and new policies for higher ed institutions. A Committee Substitute was offered to allow people with a degree to apply for a grant if going into the EMT field. The Committee Substitute was adopted and advanced to the House floor, where it passed on 2/20.
Eng. SB 155: Relating to adjunct teaching permits. This bill creates adjunct teaching permits requiring 4 years of experience in the subject or bachelor’s degree. It also stipulates a 1-year permit period, requires providing a mentor teacher, and prohibits adjunct permit personnel from teaching special education. Under the bill, permit holders would be hired only if no traditionally certified applicants apply for the position. The bill passed unanimously and now moves to the House. While Education WV recognizes the need for many school systems to fill positions, there are changes in the bill we believe should be made to provide guardrails and hope to work with members of the House to adopt these changes.
SB 388 requires public elementary or secondary school make the Aitken Bible available to certain classrooms. During the Senate Education Committee discussion, it was explained that the purpose of this bill was to make the Aitken bible available in 4th, 8th and 10th grade social studies classrooms. No instruction is required by the teacher. The bill is modeled after last year’s “In God We Trust” sign bill as community organizations would provide these bibles at no expense to school systems. While this bill does not alter the instruction provided to students, Education WV believes it is an example of spending time during the legislative session on priorities that are out of touch with what our teachers and students need for success. The bill passed the Senate by a 30-4 vote and awaits consideration in the House.
SB 445 creates a program to include Potomac State College of West Virginia University as an eligible institution for participation in the "Learn and Earn Program." The bill removes reference to the program being a "pilot" program. The bill passed the Senate and awaits consideration by the House.
SB 536 relates to qualifications for serving on certain academic boards. The bill passed the Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
SB 633 relates to the WV Commission on Holocaust Education. A committee substitute was advanced and contains several provisions including modernizing commission membership in light of the passing of Holocaust survivors and second-generation witnesses, strengthening safeguards for historical accuracy and mission integrity, and clarifying governance, transparency, and duties. The bill also ensures Holocaust education remains the central and primary purpose of the commission. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and passed the full Senate. It now moves to the House for consideration.
Committee Substitute for SB 694 removes county residency requirements for county superintendent of schools. An amendment to omit the travel time (hourly) restrictions was ultimately adopted. The bill advanced from the committee and passed the Senate. It now moves to the House for consideration.
SB 778 relates to eligibility for homebound services for exceptional children. The purpose of this bill is to remove a significant barrier for families by ensuring that students receive timely educational support through allowing nurse practitioners and physicians assistants, as well as physicians, to certify eligibility for homebound services. The bill passed the full Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
SB 802 relates to school preparation days. The purpose of this bill is to prohibit a teacher from being required to use the school preparation days for any other purpose besides the preparation for the opening of school or for school closing; require noninstructional days to include two Leave Teachers Alone (LTA) days to be used as determined by classroom teachers for activities that will improve instruction; and require both of these days to be scheduled and occur before the beginning of the instructional term. The bill passed the full Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
The Committee Substitute for SB 804 relates to removing physical education requirements for certain middle and high school athletes. The bill allows sports to count for PE requirements in middle school and high school. The Committee Substitute clarifies the language for these student athletes and advanced from the Senate Education Committee. The bill passed the full Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
Bills that have advanced from a committee
SB 11 allows certain Teachers Retirement System members to exchange unused leave for monetary compensation. The bill provides a cash bonus in exchange for up to 10 days unused days of personal leave. This bill passed the Senate last year but failed to make it across the finish line in the House. SB 11 passed the Senate Education Committee and moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 63 creates the Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act (SOAR Act). This bill allows for the expansion of in-person public charter schools, including financial and structural support, to serve geographically remote areas. The bill advanced from the Select Committee on School Choice and moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 67 adds language that was inadvertently overwritten when the bill addressing this topic was previously passed. The bill will allow authorization and funding of alternative high-risk population public charter schools; provide eligibility requirements to be an alternative high risk population public charter school; specify which students are included as "high risk"; require West Virginia Board of Education rule setting forth requirements for alternative high risk population charter school funding; allow an institution of higher education to apply to an authorizer to establish virtual or on-campus public charter microschools; allow any public charter school to partner with learning pods and microschools to provide instruction to those learning pods and microschools; and make other changes to the public charter school law. The bill would allow public charter schools to have the right of first refusal for any unused public school buildings. A committee substitute was adopted and the bill was advanced from the Select Committee on School Choice and referred to the Senate Finance Committee.
SB 102 establishes the Summer Feeding for All Program. This bill looks for innovative ways to provide assistance to students in need during summer break and other times. The bill was advanced from the Senate Education Committee and now awaits consideration by the Senate Finance Committee.
SB 170 allows a county board of education participating in a multicounty vocational center to determine that a career technical education program be part of the local high school and allows the program to be a state-approved program of study or a locally created program of study. The Senate Select Committee on School Choice advanced the bill without recommendation and it now awaits consideration by the Senate Education and Finance Committees.
Committee Substitute for SB 176 increases non-traditional instructional days for WV teachers from 5 to 10. The bill advanced from the committee and now moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 196 relates generally to liability insurance coverage for boards of education. A Committee Substitute for SB 196 was advanced by the committee, and the bill now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 216 creates the Restoring Private Schools Act of 2026. This bill gives vast autonomy to private schools. It removes requirements such as vaccinations, instructional days, attendance documentation, and assessments. During the Senate Select Committee on School Choice, Senator Clements offered an amendment requiring standardized assessments, with results available to parents. The amendment failed. Senator Woelfel offered an amendment requiring schools to require and keep immunization records. The amendment failed. The bill passed the committee and will move to the Senate floor for consideration.
Committee Substitute for SB 232 establishes WV Secondary School Athletic Trainer & Career Technical Education Program Act. The bill advanced and now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
Com. Sub. for SB 402 creates the Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act. This bill was introduced at the request of the Governor. The bill includes establishment of a Micro-Credentialing Program, expands the apprenticeship training tax credits, and eliminates barriers to professional licensures for military trained applicants. A committee substitute for the original com sub was offered for technical cleanup. The bill advanced from the Senate Finance Committee and now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
SB 428 creates three separate job titles for school bus operators (pay scale based on experience) and includes cafeteria managers (class D & E). This bill is intended as a retention incentive. The bill passed the Senate Education Committee and now awaits consideration by the Senate Finance Committee.
SB 437 creates the Fair State Aid Formula Act of 2026. The bill seeks to provide an equitable method of distributing state aid to county boards of education, recognizes the additional costs associated with rural, small, and high-need schools, and promotes fairness, transparency, and adequacy in education funding. A committee substitute was adopted by the Senate Education Committee and advanced to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 502 creates the Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act. The purpose of this bill is to protect and sustain women’s collegiate Olympic sports programs through permanent endowment funding, reward verified institutional efficiencies; incentivize private investment through targeted tax credits; and ensure full compliance with federal Title IX requirements. A committee substitute was advanced from the Senate Education Committee and the bill now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 657 creates the Cohen Craddock Student Athlete Safety Act, which requires the use of certain safety equipment during school organized football participation. A committee substitute was adopted and advanced from the Senate Education Committee. The bill now moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 683 removes the requirement that a kindergarten, preschool, or school education program operated by a private, parochial, or church school be recognized by West Virginia Department of Education Policy 2330 in order to be exempt from the section of code imposing certain childcare related licensure, approval, certification, and registration requirements. The bill advanced from the Select Committee on School Choice and now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 745 relates to requirements for school nutrition programs. A committee substitute was brought before the Health and Human Resources committee and adds additional restrictions on dyes, and provisions limiting sugars, requiring menus posted, provisions for waivers of products are not available. The school nutrition director from Fayette County spoke and remarked that the bill has some positive impacts despite challenges to find some products; however, also said the timeline of the bill may make it less impactful and manageable. They remarked that USDA is already in the process of reconfiguring guidelines. The Committee Substitute for SB 745 advanced from the HHR committee and moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 801 calls for increasing each school district’s basic foundation. The bill increases the staff per pupil ration from 72.3 per 1000 students to 75.3/1000 professionals. The bill also increases the service personnel ratio from 54.35/1000 to 57.35/1000. The bill does not penalize counties for the ratios during the 2025-2026 school year. The fiscal note based on last year’s enrollment numbers statewide is about $95 million. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 890 changes certain school calendar requirements from days or months to hours. A committee substitute was brought before the committee. Senator Oliverio discussed the potential impact of this bill for retirement, and Education WV has expressed this concern as well. Most senators spoke in favor of flexibility and local control. Senator Tarr amended (passed) to reflect (18-7a-3) employment term defined as month to 20 days or 160 hours. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and is on second reading on the Senate floor on 2/20.
SB 899 permits certain teachers to be certified to work as school principals. A committee substitute was brought before the committee. The bill permits teachers with 15 years of experience at the elementary, high school, or middle school level to be certified to be principals at the levels they have taught in for the minimum of 15 years. A WVDE representative was called to testify before the Senate Education Committee, and stated the committee substitute will include a “crash course” program for principals to address topics to be included including school law, finance, etc. The committee substitute advanced from the committee and is on second reading on the Senate floor on 2/20.
SB 913 removes the annual report requirement for WV Research Trust Fund. This bill eliminates reporting requirements for the WV Research Trust Fund (once known as Bucks for Brains) because there is no longer a balance in the fund. The bill keeps the program in place in case the state wants to revive it in the future. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and moves to the full Senate for consideration.
SB 925 provides that Future Farmers of America-sanctioned activities not count toward limit of excused absences. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and moves to the full Senate for consideration.
Committee Substitute for HB 4014, the Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act, establishes WV Micro-Credential programs and expands apprentice training tax credits. The Committee Substitute moves the Micro-Credentials program under Higher Education instead of Workforce. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and awaits consideration by the House Finance Committee.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4087 creates a WV-Ireland Education Alliance. This bill strengthens academic, cultural and workforce connections and offers five $50,000 grants between two-year and four-year schools. The bill passed the House Education Committee and is on second reading on the House floor on 2/20.
HB 4485 allows education employees to donate sick leave to co-workers for maternity leave. A committee substitute was offered that aligns the leave more with the FLA. The Committee Substitute for HB 4485 advanced from the House Education Committee and moves to the House Finance Committee for consideration.
HB 4656 addresses chronic absenteeism. This bill creates a Student Support Specialist in each county to work with students with chronic absenteeism. The bill also looks at preventative measures for intervention rather than punitive measures. The bill advanced from the House Education and Judiciary Committees and is on first reading on the House floor on 2/20.
HB 4798 requires teachers to wear a "mobile alert button" for emergency situations, to be known as "Alyssa's Law." This bill would require the alert button to be worn by all teachers, and the funding would come from private donations and administered by the Department of Homeland Security. Four counties in WV already use this system for educators. A Committee Substitute was offered that makes this permissive instead of required. Since it is now permissive, the Committee on Finance has agreed to waive the second reference. The bill was advanced by The House Education Committee and moves to the full House for consideration.
HB 4817 relates to modifying the Charter Schools Startup Fund. The bill offers an additional $100,000 to Charter Schools that receive the initial startup fund of $300,000. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and now moves to the Committee on Finance for consideration.
HB 5012 provides for in-year school personnel movement to meet school needs. A Committee Substitute will be offered to address the concerns of Education West Virginia. The Superintendent's Association spoke in support of the bill in the original form. EWV Co-President Dale Lee spoke and thanked the Chair for the opportunity to work on the agreed to language of the forthcoming Committee Substitute. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and is on second reading on the Senate floor on 2/20.
HB 5110 amends the code providing for waiver of tuition and fees for older persons auditing certain college classes. This bill changes the age from 65 to 60. The House Education Committee advanced the bill and will ask the Finance Committee to waive the second reference.
HB 5412 creates the Future Ready Education Act. This bill requires teachers in K-5 to be trained in literacy instruction and allows the Department of Education to retain funds not exceeding $7,100,000 from the Governor to develop and provide training. A Committee Substitute was offered to ensure the funding to train the teachers. The committee substitute advanced from the House Education Committee and now moves House Finance for consideration.
Com. Sub. for HB 5453 modifies the school aid funding formula and allows for a block grant of $8,000 per student to counties with a minimum funding of 1200 students. The bill also provides for a three tiered funding schedule for special needs students. It also allows county boards to request additional funding from the state BOE for items like transportation. A strike and insert amendment changed the funding from $8,000 to $6,500, changes the supplemental amount, and adds the definition of maladministration which mirrors the language in a previous bill. Committee Substitute for HB 5453 advanced from the House Education Committee and moves to the House Finance Committee for consideration.
HB 5438 modifies the foundation allowance to improve instructional programs. This bill requires the State Department of Education to implement a uniform budgeting system and requires the Governor to provide funding in each budget for the appropriation for the Third Grade Success Act. A Committee Substitute was adopted that removes outdated language and authorizes up to $15 million annually to implement and sustain the system. It also removes additional language related to full support of the Third Grade Success Act and permits county boards to use up to 50% of the allocation designated for teacher leader instruction with the Safe School Fund. The committee substitute advanced from the House Education Committee and now moves House Finance for consideration.
Be sure to take advantage of all the ways to stay informed about the 2026 Legislative Session:
- Weekly Wrap Up (email and posted on Legislative Lookout page)
- Daily Updates (posted on the Legislative Lookout page)
- Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Bluesky
- Read Education WV’s Special Legislative Edition of Rising Voice
Daily Updates
Friday, February 13, 2026 – 31st Day of Session
HOUSE
Floor Session
Today on the House Floor, the Committee Substitute for HB 4999, relating to crimes against athletic officials, was on first reading. The Committee Substitute adds "participant," or a player on a sports team, as well as school administrator, assistant coach, or other official team members to the list of those names in this section of code. The bill advances to the second reading.
Committee Meetings
In the House Educational Choice Subcommittee, the following bills were up for markup and passage:
HB 4065, relating to the membership of the Hope Scholarship Board. A strike and insert amendment was offered. The strike and insert would keep an individual selected by the Attorney General and as a voting member of the Board. In addition, it deletes the Chancellor of Higher Ed and the Director of the Herbert Henderson Office of Minority Affairs and adds a representative of the House of Delegates and the Senate. It also increases from 3 to 5 parent members of the board appointed by the Governor. The Strike and Insert Amendment was adopted. The motion to report HB 4065 as amended to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but it first be reported to the standing Committee on Education was adopted.
HB 4950 establishes the WV Freedom and Innovation Pilot Act of 2026. A strike and insert amendment was offered. The strike and insert adds a new section that would not reduce the net and adjusted enrollment of the counties for three years beginning on July 1, 2026. It would require the county to investigate ways to achieve efficiencies including collaboration with other counties. A county would still opt into a pilot program that would grant the count $5,775 per enrolled student and be eligible for a 1% annual increase if enrollment has increased. The county would not be subject to the provisions of 18-5-18 and 18A-1-1. The pilot program shall begin on July 1, 2026 and last for 2 years. The county shall develop a plan of implantation and send a copy to each school for the faculty senate to review and make recommendation. Finally, parents would have an opt out provision. A motion to report HB 4950 as amended to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the standing Committee on Education was adopted.
SENATE
Floor Session
Committee Substitute for SB 804 relates to removing physical education requirements for certain middle and high school athletes. The bill allows sports to count for PE requirements in middle school and high school. The bill advanced to third reading.
Committee Meetings
None
Thursday, February 12, 2026 – 30th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
First Reading
Committee Substitute for SB 804 relates to removing physical education requirements for certain middle and high school athletes. The bill allows sports to count for PE requirements in middle school and high school. The bill advanced to second reading.
Committee Meetings
Senate Education
SB 657 – Creating Cohen Craddock Student Athlete Safety Act, which requires the use of certain safety equipment during school organized football participation. A committee substitute was adopted and was advanced from the committee. The bill now moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 437 – Fair State Aid Formula Act of 2026. Com. Sub. adopted; advanced, moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 758 – Providing extra state aid to school districts for students enrolled in certain schools. This bill would affect 7 schools that meet the criteria classifying them as “extremely remote.” After discussion on the bill, the committee took no action today.
SB 778 – Relating to eligibility for homebound services for exceptional children. The purpose of this bill is to remove a significant barrier for families by ensuring that students receive timely educational support through allowing nurse practitioners and physicians assistants, as well as physicians, to certify eligibility for homebound services. The bill advanced from committee and moves to the full Senate for consideration.
SB 802 – Relating to school preparation days. The purpose of this bill is to prohibit a teacher from being required to use the school preparation days for any other purpose besides the preparation for the opening of school or for school closing; require noninstructional days to include two Leave Teachers Alone (LTA) days to be used as determined by classroom teachers for activities that will improve instruction; and require both of these days to be scheduled and occur before the beginning of the instructional term. The bill advanced from the committee and moves to the full Senate for consideration.
HOUSE
Floor Session
First Reading
Com. Sub for HB 4996 relates to bail in cases involving terroristic threats to schools or children. The bill mandatory bail conditions for individuals charged with making terrorist threats against a school, or a similar location including condition of bail or pretrial release that the defendant shall not reside within 1,000 feet of the boundary of any licensed child care center or school, GPS monitoring of the individuals charged, and no contact, either direct or indirect, with any student, school employee, or any other person directly associated with or employed by the threatened facility. The bill advanced to second reading.
House Committees
Public Education Subcommittee
Committee Hearing
They flipped their agenda today to accommodate Committee Hearing speakers and held the hearings first.
- HB 4798 – Requiring teachers to wear a “mobile alert button” for emergency situations, to be known as “Alyssa’s Law.” Lead Sponsor, Delegate Pinson shared that over 15,000 campuses use this mobile alert system, and 4 counties in WV already have it in place. He is hoping to see a Committee Substitute where a dedicated fund is created so he can lead fundraising efforts to cover the 9.1 million needed for year 1 implementation.
- HB 4402 – Relating to school protection officers. Coop-Gonzalez questioned the difference between Protection Officers and Prevention Officers mentioned in the bill, wondering if it was a typo. Bill sponsor, Delegate Heckert, referred Coop-Gonzalez to legal because he didn’t really know. Rodney Miller, Executive Director of the WV Sherriff’s Association spoke and answered Coop-Gonzalez’ question, stating it was in fact a typo.
- HB 5053 – To institute safeguards to verify educational quality for homeschooled students, particularly concerning core subjects and manufactured grades. Delegate Crouse spoke in length against the bill.
The Subcommittee advanced the 3 bills out of the hearing stage and on to Markup and Passage stage.
Markup and Passage
- HB 4395 – All investigations into allegations of child safety violations and child welfare risks continue for all school personnel regardless of whether the accused moved to a different job or school. This pertains to schools and school boards. With no discussion or amendments offered, the committee advanced this bill to the Standing Committee on Education.
- HB 4834 – To permit women’s wrestling in public high schools as a sanctioned event. With no discussion or amendments offered, the committee advanced this bill to the Standing Committee on Education.
- HB 4871 - Make available vegetarian meal option for students enrolled in schools, provided that such meals comply with all applicable federal nutritional guidelines. With no discussion or amendments offered, the committee advanced this bill to the Standing Committee on Education.
Wednesday, February 11, 2026 – 29th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
On 3rd reading was Com. Sub. for SB 633: Relating to WV Commission of Holocaust Education. The bill contains several provisions including modernizing commission membership in light of the passing of Holocaust survivors and second-generation witnesses, strengthening safeguards for historical accuracy and mission integrity, and clarifying governance, transparency, and duties. The bill also ensures Holocaust education remains the central and primary purpose of the commission. Sen. Grady and Woodrum offered a floor amendment that Grady explained as a clean-up amendment to improve the organization, the method of appointment of the higher education representative, and the staggering of the terms of the appointed voting members of the commission. It was adopted by a voice vote and the bill was advanced to 3rd reading.
Committee Meetings
Select Committee on School Choice
One bill was on the agenda today in the Select Committee on School Choice SB 67. The purpose of this bill is to add language that was inadvertently overwritten when the bill addressing this topic was previously passed. The bill will allow authorization and funding of alternative high-risk population public charter schools; provide eligibility requirements to be an alternative high-risk population public charter school; specify which students are included as "high risk"; require West Virginia Board of Education rule setting forth requirements for alternative high-risk population charter school funding; allow an institution of higher education to apply to an authorizer to establish virtual or on-campus public charter microschools; allow any public charter school to partner with learning pods and microschools to provide instruction to those learning pods and microschools; and make other changes to the public charter school law. The bill would allow public charter schools to have the right of first refusal for any unused public school buildings. A committee substitute was adopted and the bill was advanced from the committee and referred to the Senate Finance Committee.
HOUSE
Floor Session
No education bills on the floor today.
Committee Meetings
Education
Markup and Passage
- HB 4573 – Foster Youth Post-Secondary Transition Awareness Act. This bill requires school counselors and graduation coaches to provide guidance and training in post secondary opportunities, workforce development, housing and aftercare services for students in the foster care system.
- HB 4592 – Relating to college campus safety. The bill requires safety mapping data for higher ed institutions and school crisis response planning.
Both bills advanced from the committee.
Committee Hearing
The following bills were on hearing stage. Education WV General Counsel spoke before the committee regarding our concerns on HB 4995.
- HB 4485 – Allow education employees to donate sick leave to co-workers for maternity leave.
- HB 4591 – To recognize School Athletic Directors who have achieved a nationally recognized professional certification through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA).
- HB 4817 – Relating to modifying the Charter Schools Startup Fund.
- HB 4995 – Require the use of video cameras in certain special education classrooms.
- HB 5212 – To revise, update, and streamline the requirements for higher education grants, scholarships, loans, and financial aid for postsecondary education programs, workforce development initiatives, and workforce grants.
All bills were advanced to markup stage.
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 – 28th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
On 3rd reading was Eng. Com. Sub. for SB 694. The bill removes the county residency requirement for county superintendent of schools. It passed by a vote of 28-6. The bill will move to the House for consideration.
Second Reading
On 2nd reading was Com. Sub. for SB 633: Relating to WV Commission of Holocaust Education. The bill contains several provisions including modernizing commission membership in light of the passing of Holocaust survivors and second-generation witnesses, strengthening safeguards for historical accuracy and mission integrity, and clarifying governance, transparency, and duties. The bill also ensures Holocaust education remains the central and primary purpose of the commission. Sen. Grady and Woodrum offered a floor amendment that Grady explained as a clean-up amendment to improve the organization, the method of appointment of the higher education representative, and the staggering of the terms of the appointed voting members of the commission. It was adopted by a voice vote and the bill was advanced to 3rd reading.
Committee Meetings
Senate Education
Today in Senate Education the following bills were discussed:
SR 15 recognizing the 154th anniversary of Glenville State University. The motion to report the resolution to the floor with the recommendation it be adopted was adopted.
SB 801 increasing each school district’s basic foundation. The bill increases the staff per pupil ration from 72.3 per 1000 students to 75.3/1000 professionals. The bill also increases the service personnel ration from 54.35/1000 to 57.35/1000. The bill does not penalize counties for the ratios during the 2025-2026 school year. The fiscal note based on last years enrollment numbers statewide is about $95 million. The motion to report SB 801 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Committee on Finance.
SB 437 the Fair State Aid Formula Act of 2026. The bill provides for an equitable method of distributing state aid recognizing additional costs for rural schools and high-need schools. A Committee Substitute was offered to add additional weighting funding for special education students based on a 3-tier system. These tiers are clearly defined in the Committee Substitute. Various questions were asked concerning the funding for special needs students. A conceptual amendment was offered by Senator Tarr to put control language in the bill for the spending to be directly for the special education students and classrooms. The Chair recommended no action be taken on the bill today and the conceptual amendment be part of a new Committee Substitute to be brought before the committee.
The Committee Substitute for SB 804 removing physical education requirements for certain middle and high school athletes. The bill allows sports to count for PE requirements in middle school and high school. The Committee Substitute clarifies the language for these student athletes. The motion to report SB 804 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass.
The Committee Substitute for SB 758 was taken off the agenda because of time.
HOUSE
Floor Session
No education bills on the floor today.
Committee Meetings
House Education
In the House Public Education Subcommittee the motion to report HB 4871 making vegetarian meal options available for students enrolled in schools, provided that such meals comply with all applicable federal nutritional guidelines. The bill requires the students to give advance notice for these meals. This bill moves to the agenda on Thursday due to the lengthy Floor Session today.
HB 4834, to permit women’s wrestling in public high schools, was on the Committee Hearing stage. Girls from the state who participate in wrestling came to testify. There are currently more than 300 girls wrestling in WV high schools currently. The WVSSAC suggested a probationary sanctioning which would allow more leeway for the sport. Several of the girls from across the state spoke to the bill. The bill now advances to markup and passage in the subcommittee.
In the House Educational Choice Subcommittee the following bills were up for markup and passage:
HB 4062 to create the WV Homeschool Student Athletics Participation Act. This bill allows homeschool teams to participate against WVSSAC member schools. A strike and insert amendment was offered moves the section to a more appropriate section of code. It gives the WVSSAC the right for approval and makes participation a privilege not a right. The student would have to follow the rules of the WVSSAC and would apply only to an individual student, not club sports, academies, etc. The motion to adopt the Strike and Insert for HB 4062 was adopted. The motion to report the Strike and Insert for HB 4062 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Standing Education Committee was adopted.
HB 4065 relating to the membership of the Hope Scholarship Board. This bill removes the language of “…intending to homeschool” and allows for three parents to be voting members on the board. The bill also makes the Attorney General, the State Superintendent of Schools and the Chancellor of Higher Education non-voting members. The chair announced this bill will be held for a later meeting.
House Judiciary Committee
Mark up and passage stage
HB 4996 relating to bail in cases involving terroristic threats to schools or children. A Committee Substitute was offered and creates mandatory bail conditions for individuals charged with making terrorist threats against a school, or a similar location including condition of bail or pretrial release that the defendant shall not reside within 1,000 feet of the boundary of any licensed child care center or school, GPS monitoring of the individuals charged, and no contact, either direct or indirect, with any student, school employee, or any other person directly associated with or employed by the threatened facility. The Committee Substitute for HB 4996 advanced to the floor with the recommendation that it do pass.
Hearing stage
HB 4999 relating to crimes against athletic officials. This bill modifies the criminal and administrative penalties for assault or battery on athletic officials or participants, strengthening a bill previously passed. It was discussed to include clarification that hard fouls during play would not result in a battery charge for players. The bill will move to mark up and discussion.
*Please note that any bill that moves to markup and passage is not automatically advanced from the committee. The bill still must be placed on the committee agenda in a future meeting and be considered by the full committee.
Monday, February 9, 2026 – 27th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Second Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 694 removes the county residency requirement for county superintendent of schools. There were no amendments on this bill and it advanced to third reading.
First Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 633 relates to WV Commission on Holocaust Education. The bill contains several provisions including modernizing commission membership in light of the passing of Holocaust survivors and second-generation witnesses, strengthening safeguards for historical accuracy and mission integrity, and clarifying governance, transparency, and duties. The bill also ensures Holocaust education remains the central and primary purpose of the commission. The bill advanced to second reading.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Today on the House floor the Committee Substitute for HB 4982, Make West Virginia Healthy Act of 2026, passed by a vote of 91-4 with 4 members absent. The Committee Substitute creates the Office of Healthy Lifestyles within the Department of Health and works with the Department of Education to develop and implement plans focused on improving the physical fitness of students and implement and fund a sustainable Farm-to-School program. The Committee Substitute also requires the use of local foods in the public schools and clarifies the requirements of the Physical Fitness test.
Committee Meetings
House Education
Today in House Education the following bills were reported from the Subcommittees:
HB 4817 relating to modifying the Charter Schools Startup Fund. The bill would make available an additional $100,000 from to Charter Schools that received the initial grant of $300,000 for startup. The bill also moves this fund from the State Department of Education to the WV Charter Schools Board.
HB 4485 allowing education employees to donate sick leave to co-workers for maternity leave. The bill was amended in the subcommittee to include illnesses for children as covered under the Family Leave Act.
Both of these bills now advance to markup and passage.
The following three bills were on the Committee hearing stage:
HB 4592 relating to college campus safety. The bill requires safety mapping data for higher ed institutions and school crisis response planning.
HB 4693 to declassify Community and Technical Education (CTE) teaching positions to allow for counties to provide additional funding for certain positions. This bill relates to trades-based high school instructors that are providing CTE instruction.
HB 4759 modifying the rules for transferring students. This bill resends the current transfer rule and allows the WVSSAC to pull the coaching credentials of any coach that is found guilty of illegally recruiting.
These three bills now advance to markup and passage.
*Please note that any bill that moves to markup and passage is not automatically advanced from the committee. The bill still must be placed on the committee agenda in a future meeting and be considered by the full committee.
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Daily Updates
Friday, February 6, 2026 – 24th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Second Reading
Committee Substitute for SB 694 removes the county residency requirement for county superintendent of schools. The bill was laid over for one day.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Second Reading
Today on the House Floor the Committee Substitute for HB 4982, make WV Healthy Act of 2026, was on second reading. The bill creates the Office of Healthy Lifestyles within the Department of Health. This office shall work with the Department of Education to develop and implement plans focused on improving the physical fitness of students in WV and to implement and fund a sustainable Farm-to-School program. The state board shall implement the Presidential Fitness Test as the Standardized Test for Physical Education in WV public schools. Delegate Clark offered an amendment to use local foods in the bill. The amendment was adopted. Delegates Statler and Toney offered an amendment to use existing facilities for the physical education requirements and to clarify the Presidential Fitness test. The amendment passed. With no other amendments offered, the bill as amended now moves to third reading.
There were no education committee meetings in either chamber today.
Thursday, February 5, 2026 – 23rd Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
No education bills today.
Second Reading
No education bills today.
First Reading
Com. Sub. for SB 694: Removing county residency requirement for county superintendent of schools. The bill advanced to second reading.
Education
SB 502: Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act. The purpose of this bill is to protect and sustain women’s collegiate Olympic sports programs through permanent endowment funding, reward verified institutional efficiencies; incentivize private investment through targeted tax credits; and ensure full compliance with federal Title IX requirements. A committee substitute was advanced and the bill now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 633: Relating to WV Commission on Holocaust Education. A committee substitute was advanced and contains several provisions including modernizing commission membership in light of the passing of Holocaust survivors and second-generation witnesses, strengthening safeguards for historical accuracy and mission integrity, and clarifying governance, transparency, and duties. The bill also ensures Holocaust education remains the central and primary purpose of the commission. The bill moves to the full Senate for consideration.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
No education bills today.
Second Reading
No education bills today.
First Reading
Com. Sub. for HB 4982 - Make West Virginia Healthy Act of 2026 (NOTE: The purpose of this bill is to establish and expand a coordinated, statewide Healthy Lifestyles framework to promote nutrition, physical activity, and wellness through cross-agency collaboration, school-based initiatives, public-private partnerships, grants, and reporting requirements to improve the health of West Virginians.)
Committee Meetings
Subcommittee on Public Education
Today in the House Public Education Subcommittee HB 4485 allowing education employees to donate sick leave to co-workers for maternity leave was up for markup and passage. A Strike and Insert amendment was offered that would take higher ed out of the bill. The bill also prohibits counties from not allowing mothers to use their sick leave. The motion to adopt the Committee Substitute passed. The motion to report the Strike and Insert for HB 4485 as amend to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the standing Committee on Education was adopted.
On the Committee hearing stage was HB 4395, all investigations into allegations of child safety violations and child welfare risks continue for all school personnel regardless of whether the accused moved to a different job or school. The bill will now advance to markup and passage in the subcommittee.
In the House Educational Choice Subcommittee HB 4065 relating to the membership of the Hope Scholarship Board, was on the Committee hearing stage. The bill deletes the language of “3 members who intend to homeschool” from the Board. The bill also make the Attorney General, the Chancellor of Higher Ed and the State Superintendent of Schools non-voting members of the board. The bill will now advance to markup and passage in the subcommittee.
Wednesday, February 4, 2026 – 22nd Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading:
Eng. SB 155: Relating to adjunct teaching permits. This bill creates adjunct teaching permits requiring 4 years of experience in the subject or bachelor’s degree. It also stipulates a 1-year permit period, requires providing a mentor teacher, and prohibits adjunct permit personnel from teaching special education. Under the bill, permit holders would be hired only if no traditionally certified applicants apply for the position. The bill passed unanimously and now moves to the House. While Education WV recognizes the need for many school systems to fill positions, there are changes in the bill we believe should be made to provide guardrails and hope to work with members of the House to adopt these changes.
Committee Meetings
Select Committee on School Choice
SB 63: Creating Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act (SOAR Act) This bill allows for the expansion of in-person public charter schools, including financial and structural support, to serve geographically remote areas. The bill advanced from the committee and moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 683: Removing certain requirements for private, parochial, or church schools. The bill removes the requirement that a kindergarten, preschool, or school education program operated by a private, parochial, or church school be recognized by West Virginia Department of Education Policy 2330 in order to be exempt from the section of code imposing certain childcare related licensure, approval, certification, and registration requirements. The bill advanced from the committee and now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
HOUSE
Floor Session: No education bills on the floor today.
Education Committee
Today in House Education, the Committee Substitute for HB 4440, permitting law enforcement to issue a citation when students are caught with nicotine in schools, was discussed. This bill establishes fines for various offenses for students with nicotine and vapes. The committee substitute moves the section of code in the bill and adds school resource officers to the list of officers that can issue the citation. The bill was laid over for further consideration to appear on a later agenda.
The following bills were on the Committee Hearing stage:
HB 4446, the Firefighter Pilot Program. This establishes a pilot program in no more than 4 locations through higher ed.
HB 4573, the Foster Youth Post-Secondary Transition Awareness Act. This bill requires school counselors and graduation coaches to provide guidance and training in post secondary opportunities, workforce development, housing and aftercare services for students in the foster care system.
Both of these bills could now advance to the markup and passage stage of the Education Committee.
Tuesday, February 3, 2026 – 21st Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Third Reading
Eng. SB 536: Relating to qualifications for serving on certain academic boards. Passed unanimously.
Second Reading
SB 155: Relating to adjunct teaching permits. This bill creates adjunct teaching permits requiring 4 years of experience in the subject or bachelor’s degree. It also stipulates a 1-year permit period, requires providing a mentor teacher, and prohibits adjunct permit personnel from teaching special education. Under the bill, permit holders would be hired only if no traditionally certified applicants apply for the position. While Education WV recognizes the need for many school systems to fill positions, there are changes in the bill we believe should be made in the bill to provide guardrails. No amendments were made to the bill, and it advances to third reading.
First Reading
There are no bills on First Reading for Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
Committee Meetings
Education
SB 176: Increasing non-traditional instruction days for WV teachers (increases from 5 to 10). A committee substitute was adopted and the bill now moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 232: Establishing WV Secondary School Athletic Trainer & Career Technical Education Program Act. A committee substitute for SB 232 advanced and now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration
SB 694: Removing county residency requirements for county superintendent of schools. There was a lot of debate on this bill during the committee meeting. Senator Barnhart offered an amendment to change 2 hours to 1 hours, but after discussion, withdrew the amendment. Senator Hart conceptually offered an amendment to only give the power to the elected county boards and not the state board (of education). Amendment did not pass. Senator Fuller conceptually offered an amendment that omits the travel time (hourly) restrictions. Amendment was adopted. Com. Sub for SB 694, as amended, advances to the full senate with the recommendation that it do pass.
HOUSE
Floor Session
No education bills on the floor today.
Committee Meetings
All three House Education Subcommittees met today.
In the House Public Education Subcommittee, the following bills were on the Committee Hearing agenda:
HB 4871 making vegetarian meal option available for students enrolled in schools, provided that such meals comply with all applicable federal nutritional guidelines. There is federal money available so it would not be an additional cost to our schools.
HB 4467 relating to maternity leave for school employees. This would allow pregnant women and mothers the utilization of the sick leave bank.
HB 4485 allowing education employees to donate sick leave to co-workers for maternity leave. This bill adds maternity leave for transferable days.
In the House Educational Choice Subcommittee HB 4817 relating to modifying the Charter Schools Startup Fund was up for passage. This bill would make Charter School applicants receiving the first $300,000 grant eligible for and additional $100,000 for start up. The bill also moves the grant review from the Department of Education to the State Charter School Board. The motion to report the bill to the floor but first be reported to Education Committee with the recommendation it do pass was adopted. The bill will now go to the full Education Committee.
On the committee hearing agenda were:
HB 4062 to create the WV Homeschool Student Athletics Participation Act. This bill would allow organized homeschool teams the ability to play WVSSAC member schools. The WVSSAC spoke against the bill reminding the subcommittee that our homeschool students now have the opportunity to play in our schools. EWV Co-President Dale Lee also spoke to the bill with concerns. The bill will now advance to mark-up and discussion and must pass the subcommittee before being reported to the full Education Committee.
HB 4065 relating to the membership of the Hope Scholarship Board. This bill deletes language of “three board members who intend to homeschool” was moved off the agenda because of time.
HB 4950 to establish the WV Freedom and Innovation Pilot Act of 2026. This allows a county to participate in w pilot program and be funded by a block grant receiving $5,775 per student in a block grant. The county would not be subject to the provisions of WV Code 18 and 18-A for staffing ratios, service personnel quotas, and salary schedules. This gives the pilot county full authority over their own salaries, benefits, class sizes and calendars. Co-President Dale Lee spoke about major concerns Education West Virginia has with the bill. The bill advances to mark-up and discussion and must pass the subcommittee before being reported to the full Education Committee.
In the Higher Education Subcommittee a presentation was given by Dr. Martin S. Roth, President of the University of Charleston concerning Grad PLUS Loans and International students in the workplace.
Monday, February 2, 2026 – 20th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Second Reading
SB 536: Relating to qualifications for serving on certain academic boards. There were no amendments made and the bill advances to third reading.
First Reading
SB 155: Relating to adjunct teaching permits. This bill creates adjunct teaching permits requiring 4 years of experience in the subject or bachelor’s degree. It also stipulates a 1-year permit period, requires providing a mentor teacher, and prohibits adjunct permit personnel from teaching special education. Under the bill, permit holders would be hired only if no traditionally certified applicants apply for the position. While Education WV recognizes the need for many school systems to fill positions, there are amendments we believe should be made in the bill to provide guardrails. The bill advanced to second reading.
HOUSE
Floor Session
No action on education bills.
Education Committee Meeting
Today in House Education the following bills were reported from the subcommittees with the recommendation they be reported to the full committee:
HB 4116 relating to eligibility for WV Invests Grant Program. The bill allows for people with a degree to receive the grant for an associate degree in emergency medical services.
HB 4152 the Workforce-Education Partnership Act. This bill incentivizes businesses to invest in vocational training.
HB 4533 includes Potomac State College in the definition of community and technical college ed program for participation in the “Learn and Earn Program.
No action was taken on these bills.
Markup and Passage - No Bills
Committee Hearing
The following bills were on the Committee Hearing agenda:
HB 4440 permitting law enforcement to issue a citation when students are caught with nicotine in schools. This includes vape products.
HB 4697 requiring that any student in the 11th or 12th grade, who has been placed in a “free/elective/assistant” period, be informed of online college course opportunities available for them. This could be a verbal notice or in writing.
HB 4775 relating to addressing School Discipline in Public Schools. This bill requires annual reports to LOCEA, periodic updates to LOCEA, and would require the State department to publish the discipline data to be included on the data dashboard for public access.
These three bills will now go to the mark-up and discussion phase.
2026 Legislature: Weekly Wrap Up 2-6-26
The third full week of the 2026 Legislative Session has concluded, and we’ve seen a slower than average pace of bills moving through the process so far this year.
However, there is still a lot of work happening on bills before they get to a floor vote. The House Education subcommittees were particularly busy this week, and Education WV Co-President Dale Lee discussed concerns with some of the bills during subcommittee meetings. A few bills of note that the subcommittees discussed include:
- HB 4485 allowing education employees to donate sick leave to co-workers for maternity leave was up for markup and passage. The bill also prohibits counties from not allowing mothers to use their sick leave. A strike and insert amendment was offered that would take higher ed out of the bill. The motion to adopt the committee substitute passed. The motion to report the strike and insert for HB 4485 as amended to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the standing Committee on Education was adopted. The bill will move to the House Education Committee for consideration.
- HB 4062 creates the WV Homeschool Student Athletics Participation Act. This bill would allow organized homeschool teams the ability to play WVSSAC member schools. The WVSSAC spoke against the bill reminding the subcommittee that homeschool students currently have the opportunity to play in our schools. EWV Co-President Dale Lee also spoke to the bill with concerns. The bill will now advance to mark-up and discussion and must pass the subcommittee before being reported to the full Education Committee.
- HB 4950 establishes the WV Freedom and Innovation Pilot Act of 2026. This allows a county to participate in a pilot program and be funded by a block grant receiving $5,775 per student in a block grant. The county would not be subject to the provisions of WV Code 18 and 18-A for staffing ratios, service personnel quotas, and salary schedules. This gives the pilot county full authority over their own salaries, benefits, class sizes and calendars. Co-President Dale Lee spoke about major concerns Education West Virginia has with the bill. The bill now advances to mark-up and discussion and must pass the subcommittee before being reported to the full Education Committee.
Please note that introduced bills are generally not reported on in the weekly wrap up until they are on a committee agenda and considered active. Education WV holds daily morning briefings with co-presidents and headquarters staff not only to prepare for the legislative day ahead, but also to review and assess all introduced legislation, its impact on our members and our strategy to promote passage, defeat or amendment of the bill.
Priority Issues
Numerous bills to address salaries and PEIA continue to be introduced. While the Governor proposed an average pay increase of 3% during his State of the State, the House leadership has indicated a willingness for a larger increase. The Senate also put forth their own pay raise last week and Education WV has been working this week with bill sponsors on clarifications and fiscal items in the bill.
SB 516 was discussed last week in the Senate Education Committee, and laid over for further discussion. The purpose of the bill is to establish a minimum salary of $50,000 for teachers, paired with an across-the-board raise of $2,000 for all educators. Since the meeting, Education WV Co-Presidents Dale Lee and Kristie Skidmore have been working with legislative leaders and their staff regarding some tweaks needed to ensure the full goal of the legislation is achieved, in addition to obtaining accurate figures to ensure an accurate fiscal note accompanies the bill. If this would become the bill that ultimately is the vehicle for a pay raise, other bills to provide pay increases for service personnel and public employees would be introduced and start to move as well.
Education WV has been working with lawmakers on other bills to offer employees relief on PEIA. Two of these bills include:
SB 660, relating to spousal coverage under PEIA, was introduced last week. Education WV has been working with the sponsors of this bill to bring this to fruition, believing it will lessen the impact of the spousal surcharge on our members. The bill would remove the requirement that an employee pay the actuarial value for spousal PEIA coverage and instead require the employee to pay for the coverage based upon their salary and tier of coverage. The bill was referred to the Banking and Insurance Committee and the Finance Committee.
SB 526 is an important bill to watch regarding PEIA. This bill modifies the 80/20 method of calculation of the employer and employee contribution percentages for PEIA premiums. This change would be beneficial to employees and result in lower costs. The bill was introduced on January 20 and referred to the Banking and Insurance Committee.
Bills that have passed one chamber
HB 4574 and HB 4575 have both passed the House. These two bills are the response to Hancock County’s financial crisis. While the House dispensed the rules and passed both bills on 1-19-26, the Senate chose to utilize the traditional process, and the bills will move through their committee references. The Senate chose to proceed via the regular process and both bills moved to the Senate for consideration. HB 4574 was discussed in Senate Education last week and WV Superintendent of Schools Michelle Blatt answered questions from the committee. No action was taken and the bill was laid over for a future meeting.
HB 4081 establishes the Higher Education Health and Aid Grant. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
Committee Substitute for HB 4002 establishes the WV Collaboratory, which facilitates the dissemination of policy and research expertise through WVU, Marshall University, and West Virginia State University. The bill passed the House and now awaits consideration by the Senate.
Committee Substitute for HB 4005, the Workforce Development Act of 2026, provides for apprenticeship programs for ages 16 through 18, and clarifies the categories of employment which are prohibited or authorized for those who are under the age of 16. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
HB 4422 permits students in the eighth and ninth grade to attend summer school in order to raise their grades and establish academic eligibility to play sports in the fall. The bill does not require counties to offer summer school but makes eighth and ninth graders eligible for those counties that offer summer school. The bill passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.
Eng. SB 155: Relating to adjunct teaching permits. This bill creates adjunct teaching permits requiring 4 years of experience in the subject or bachelor’s degree. It also stipulates a 1-year permit period, requires providing a mentor teacher, and prohibits adjunct permit personnel from teaching special education. Under the bill, permit holders would be hired only if no traditionally certified applicants apply for the position. The bill passed unanimously and now moves to the House. While Education WV recognizes the need for many school systems to fill positions, there are changes in the bill we believe should be made to provide guardrails and hope to work with members of the House to adopt these changes.
SB 388 requires public elementary or secondary school make the Aitken Bible available to certain classrooms. During the Senate Education Committee discussion, it was explained that the purpose of this bill was to make the Aitken bible available in 4th, 8th, and 10th grade social studies classrooms. No instruction is required by the teacher. The bill is modeled after last year’s “In God We Trust” sign bill as community organizations would provide these bibles at no expense to school systems. While this bill does not alter the instruction provided to students, Education WV believes it is an example of spending time during the legislative session on priorities that are out of touch with what our teachers and students need for success. The bill passed the Senate by a 30-4 vote and awaits consideration in the House.
SB 445 creates a program to include Potomac State College of West Virginia University as an eligible institution for participation in the "Learn and Earn Program." The bill removes reference to the program being a "pilot" program. The bill passed the Senate and awaits consideration by the House.
SB 536 relates to qualifications for serving on certain academic boards. The bill passed the Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
Bills that have advanced from a committee
SB 11 allows certain Teachers Retirement System members to exchange unused leave for monetary compensation. The bill provides a cash bonus in exchange for up to 10 days unused days of personal leave. This bill passed the Senate last year but failed to make it across the finish line in the House. SB 11 passed the Senate Education Committee and moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 63 creates the Sustaining Opportunities for Academics in Rural Schools Act (SOAR Act). This bill allows for the expansion of in-person public charter schools, including financial and structural support, to serve geographically remote areas. The bill advanced from the Select Committee on School Choice and moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 102 establishes the Summer Feeding for All Program. This bill looks for innovative ways to provide assistance to students in need during summer break and other times. The bill was advanced from the Senate Education Committee and now awaits consideration by the Senate Finance Committee.
SB 170 allows a county board of education participating in a multicounty vocational center to determine that a career technical education program be part of the local high school and allows the program to be a state-approved program of study or a locally created program of study. The Senate Select Committee on School Choice advanced the bill and referred it to the Senate Education Committee.
Committee Substitute for SB 176 increases non-traditional instructional days for WV teachers from 5 to 10. The bill advanced from the committee and now moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 196 relates generally to liability insurance coverage for boards of education. A Committee Substitute for SB 196 was advanced by the committee, and the bill now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 216 creates the Restoring Private Schools Act of 2026. This bill gives vast autonomy to private schools. It removes requirements such as vaccinations, instructional days, attendance documentation, and assessments. During the Senate Select Committee on School Choice, Senator Clements offered an amendment requiring standardized assessments, with results available to parents. The amendment failed. Senator Woelfel offered an amendment requiring schools to require and keep immunization records. The amendment failed. The bill passed the committee and will move to the Senate floor for consideration.
Committee Substitute for SB 232 establishes WV Secondary School Athletic Trainer & Career Technical Education Program Act. The bill advanced and now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 428 creates three separate job titles for school bus operators (pay scale based on experience) and includes cafeteria managers (class D & E). This bill is intended as a retention incentive. The bill passed the Senate Education Committee and now awaits consideration by the Senate Finance Committee.
SB 502 creates the Women’s Collegiate Sports Protection Act. The purpose of this bill is to protect and sustain women’s collegiate Olympic sports programs through permanent endowment funding, reward verified institutional efficiencies; incentivize private investment through targeted tax credits; and ensure full compliance with federal Title IX requirements. A committee substitute was advanced from the Senate Education Committee and the bill now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 633 relates to the WV Commission on Holocaust Education. A committee substitute was advanced and contains several provisions including modernizing commission membership in light of the passing of Holocaust survivors and second-generation witnesses, strengthening safeguards for historical accuracy and mission integrity, and clarifying governance, transparency, and duties. The bill also ensures Holocaust education remains the central and primary purpose of the commission. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and moves to the full Senate for consideration.
SB 683 removes the requirement that a kindergarten, preschool, or school education program operated by a private, parochial, or church school be recognized by West Virginia Department of Education Policy 2330 in order to be exempt from the section of code imposing certain childcare related licensure, approval, certification, and registration requirements. The bill advanced from the Select Committee on School Choice and now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
Committee Substitute for SB 694 removes county residency requirements for county superintendent of schools. There was much discussion on this bill during the Senate Education Committee meeting. Several amendments were offered, and some were withdrawn. An amendment to omit the travel time (hourly) restrictions was ultimately adopted. The bill advanced from the committee and advanced to second reading Senate floor on Friday, where it was laid over one day.
Committee Substitute for HB 4014, the Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act, establishes WV Micro-Credential programs and expands apprentice training tax credits. The Committee Substitute moves the Micro-Credentials program under Higher Education instead of Workforce. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and awaits consideration by the House Finance Committee.
HB 4656 addresses chronic absenteeism. This bill creates a Student Support Specialist in each county to work with students with chronic absenteeism. The bill also looks at preventative measures for intervention rather than punitive measures. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and now moves to the House Judiciary Committee for consideration.
Committee Substitute for HB 4982 creates the Make West Virginia Healthy Act of 2026. The purpose of this bill is to establish and expand a coordinated, statewide Healthy Lifestyles framework to promote nutrition, farm to school initiatives, physical activity, and wellness through cross-agency collaboration, school-based initiatives, public-private partnerships, grants, and reporting requirements to improve the health of West Virginians. The bill passed the House Health and Human Resources Committee and was on second reading on Friday before the full House. An amendment was adopted on second reading which includes adding the use of the Presidential Fitness Test as part of this program. The bill advanced to third reading.
Be sure to take advantage of all the ways to stay informed about the 2026 Legislative Session:
- Weekly Wrap Up (email and posted on Legislative Lookout page)
- Daily Updates (posted on the Legislative Lookout page)
- Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, Bluesky
- Read Education WV’s Special Legislative Edition of Rising Voice
Daily Updates
Friday, January 30, 2026 – 17th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Bills on First Reading
SB 536: Relating to qualifications for serving on certain academic boards. The bill was advanced to second reading.
There were no committee meetings today related to education.
HOUSE
Floor Session
There were no education bills on the House special calendar today. There were no committee meetings today related to education.
Thursday, January 29, 2026 – 16th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
The following education bills were on third reading:
- SB 388: Requiring public elementary or secondary school make Aitken Bible available to certain classrooms.
- During committee discussion last week, it was explained that the purpose of this bill was to make the Aitken bible available in 4th, 8th and 10th grade social studies classrooms. No instruction is required by the teacher. The bill is modeled after last year’s “In God We Trust” sign bill as community organizations would provide these bibles at no expense to school systems. While this bill does not alter the instruction required for students, it’s an example of spending time during the legislative session on priorities that are out of touch with what our teachers and students need for success. Attempts were made during second reading to amend the bill, but the amendments failed. The bill passed in a 30-4 vote and now moves to the House for consideration.
- SB 445: Adding Potomac State College as eligible institution for participation in Learn and Earn Program (original similar to HB 4533). The bill passed the Senate unanimously and now moves to the House for consideration.
Senate Committee Meetings
Education
- SB 155: Relating to adjunct teaching permits. The bill creates adjunct teaching permits requiring of 4 years of experience in the subject or bachelor’s degree. It also stipulates a 1-year permit period, requires providing a mentor teacher, and prohibits adjunct permit personnel from teaching special education. Under the bill, permit holders would be hired only if there are no traditionally certified applicants who apply. The bill passed the committee and moves to the full Senate for consideration.
- SB 196: Relating generally to liability insurance coverage for boards of education. A Committee Substitute for SB 196 was advanced by the committee, and the bill now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
- SB 11: Allowing certain Teachers Retirement System members to exchange unused leave for monetary compensation. The bill provides a cash bonus in exchange for up to 10 days unused days of personal leave. This bill passed the Senate last year but failed to make it across the finish line in the House. SB 11 passed the committee today and moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
- SB 516: Increasing state minimum salary for teachers. The purpose of the bill is to establish a minimum salary of $50,000 for teachers, paired with an across the board raise of $2,000 increase for all educators. Education WV Co-President Kristie Skidmore attended the committee meeting and was asked to speak by Senator Garcia. Skidmore testified that the bill has the potential to be a positive initiative, but there may be some amendments needed, as well as a fiscal note, to ensure the goal of the legislation is achieved. The committee’s counsel stated that a fiscal note was requested yesterday evening. After much discussion, it was the decision of the chair to take no action today and the bill was laid over until a future date.
HOUSE
Floor Session
No education bills on the House special calendar today.
House Committee Meetings
Subcommittee on Educational Choice
Today in the House Educational Choice Subcommittee, HB 4817, relating to modifying the Charter Schools Startup, was on the committee hearing phase. This bill would create an additional fund opportunity of up to $100,000 for a Charter School that receives the initial startup grant of up to $300,000.
Subcommittee on Higher Education
In the House Higher Ed Subcommittee, the following bills were up for markup and passage:
- HB 4116, relating to eligibility for WV Invests Grant Program. This bill expands for eligibility for an associate degree in emergency medical services. The motion to report the bill to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the full Committee on Education was adopted.
- HB 4152, Workforce-Education Partnership Act. This bill incentivizes businesses to invest in vocational training opportunities. The motion to report the bill to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the full Committee on Education was adopted.
- HB 4533, including Potomac State in the definition of community and technical college education program for participation in the “Learn and Earn Program.” The motion to report the bill to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the full Committee on Education was adopted.
Wednesday, January 28, 2026 – 15th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
Bills on Second Reading
SB 388: Requiring public elementary or secondary school make Aitken Bible available to certain classrooms. An amendment was offered by Senator Woelfel to add “and the Catholic American bible” to the bill. After much debate, the amendment failed. The bill advanced to third reading.
SB 445: Adding Potomac State College as eligible institution for participation in Learn and Earn Program (original similar to HB 4533). The bill advanced to third reading.
Scheduled Committee Meetings
Select Committee on School Choice
SB 170: Allowing career technical education program to be part of local high school. The purpose of this bill is to allow a county board of education participating in a multicounty vocational center to determine that a career technical education program be part of the local high school; and allow the program to be a state-approved program of study or a locally created program of study. The advanced the bill to the report to senate floor with a recommendation to refer to the senate education committee.
SB 536: Relating to qualifications for serving on certain academic boards. The bill passed the committee and moves to the Senate floor for consideration.
SB 216: Restoring Private Schools Act of 2026. This bill gives vast autonomy to private schools. It removes requirements such as vaccinations, instructional days, attendance documentation, and assessments. Senator from Clements offered an amendment requiring standardized assessments, with results available to parents. The amendment failed. Senator Woelfel offered an amendment requiring schools to require and keep immunization records. The amendment failed. The bill passed the committee and will move to the Senate floor for consideration.
Senate Finance Committee
During today’s meeting, the committee heard a budget presentation from WVDE. Senators were engaged and asking good questions about the budget and the school aid formula.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Today during the House Floor Session, HB 4422, permitting students in the eighth and ninth grade to attend summer school in order to raise their grades and establish academic eligibility to play sports in the fall passed by a vote of 95-0 with 4 members absent. The bill does not require counties to offer summer school but makes eighth and ninth graders eligible for those counties that offer summer school. That was the only education related bill on the House Special Calendar.
Committee Meetings: No committee meetings to report today.
Tuesday, January 27, 2026 – 14th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
First Reading (Both bills advanced to second reading)
- SB 388: Requiring public elementary or secondary school make Aitken Bible available to certain classrooms
- During committee discussion last week, it was explained that the purpose of this bill was to make the Aitken bible available in 4th, 8th and 10th grade social studies classrooms. No instruction is required by the teacher. The bill is modeled after last year’s “In God We Trust” sign bill as community organizations would provide these bibles at no expense to school systems. While this bill does not alter the instruction required for students, it’s an example of spending time during the legislative session on priorities that are out of touch with what our teachers and students need for success.
- SB 445: Adding Potomac State College as eligible institution for participation in Learn and Earn Program (original similar to HB 4533)
Committee Meetings
Senate Education
Today in Senate Education the following bills were discussed:
SB 102 Establishing Summer Feeding for All Program. This bill looks for innovative ways provide assistance to students in need during summer break and other times. The motion to report the bill to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass but first be reported to the Committee on Finance was adopted.
HB 4574 Providing for condition-based emergency funding for a financially distressed county. This provides available funding in the terms of a loan for a distressed county for personnel and operating expenses for the remainder of the year. This bill passed the House in one day to assist Hancock County. The companion bill providing $8,000,000 in funding has been assigned to Senate Finance. Several questions were asked of council and State Superintendent Blatt. The bill was laid over with more questions to be asked.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Today on the House Floor, the Committee Substitute for HB 4002 Establishing the WV Collaboratory, passed by a vote of 76-12 with 11 members not voting. This bill facilitates the dissemination of polity and research expertise through WVU, Marshall University and West Virginia State University.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4005, the Workforce Development Act of 2026, passed by a vote of 83-5 with 11 members not voting. The bill provides for apprenticeship programs for ages 16 through 18, but are prohibited for children under the age of 16.
On second reading was HB 4422, permitting students in the 8th and 9th grade to attend summer school in order to raise their grades and establish academic eligibility to play fall sports. This bill does not require summer school for a county, only permits 8th and 9th graders to take summer school courses. With no amendments, the bill advances to third reading.
Committee Meetings:
Today in House Education, the following bills were discussed:
A Committee Substitute for HB 4014, Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act. Their bill establishes WV Micro-Credential programs and expands apprentice training tax credits. The Committee Substitute moves the Micro-Credentials program under Higher Education instead of Workforce. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 4014 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Committee on Finance was adopted.
HB 4656, the chronic absenteeism bill. This bill creates a Student Support Specialist in each county to work with students with chronic absenteeism. The bill also looks at preventative measures for intervention rather than punitive measures. The motion to report HB 4656 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Committee on Judiciary was adopted.
HB 4660 moving the sixth grade from the elementary school to the middle school was pulled from the agenda.
Monday, January 26, 2026 – 13th Day of Session
Both the Senate and the House have cancelled all committee meetings and floor sessions today due to the weather.
2026 Legislature: Weekly Wrap Up 1-30-26
The second full week of the 2026 Legislative Session was slightly abbreviated, with neither chamber conducting votes on Monday due to inclement weather and travel conditions.
The education committees in each chamber advanced a handful of bills this week and a few passed their chamber of origin. Numerous bills were introduced this week; some of these are positive bills for education employees, and some are concerning.
Please note that introduced bills are generally not reported on in the weekly wrap up until they are on a committee agenda and considered active. Education WV holds daily morning briefings with co-presidents and headquarters staff not only to prepare for the legislative day ahead, but also to review and assess all introduced legislation, its impact on our members and our strategy to promote passage, defeat or amendment of the bill. Rest assured that Education WV is constantly working to improve and protect your professional interests.
Priority Issues
Numerous bills to address salaries and PEIA are starting to be introduced. While the Governor proposed an average pay increase of 3% during his State of the State, the House leadership has indicated a willingness for a larger increase. The Senate also put forth their own pay raise this week.
SB 516 was on the agenda of the Senate Education Committee agenda on Thursday. The purpose of the bill is to establish a minimum salary of $50,000 for teachers, paired with an across-the-board raise of $2,000 for all educators. Education WV Co-President Kristie Skidmore attended the committee meeting and was asked to speak by Senator Garcia. Skidmore testified that the bill is a positive initiative, but there may be some tweaks needed to ensure the full goal of the legislation is achieved.
Education WV has been working with lawmakers on other bills to offer employees relief on PEIA. Two of these bills include:
SB 660, relating to spousal coverage under PEIA, was introduced on Thursday. Education WV has been working with the sponsors of this bill to bring this to fruition, believing it will lessen the impact of the spousal surcharge on our members. The bill would remove the requirement that an employee pay the actuarial value for spousal PEIA coverage and instead require the employee to pay for the coverage based upon their salary and tier of coverage. The bill was referred to the Banking and Insurance Committee and the Finance Committee.
SB 526 is an important bill to watch regarding PEIA. This bill modifies the 80/20 method of calculation of the employer and employee contribution percentages for PEIA premiums. This change would be beneficial to employees and result in lower costs. The bill was introduced on January 20 and referred to the Banking and Insurance Committee.
Bills that have passed one chamber
HB 4574 and HB 4575 have both passed the House. These two bills are the response to Hancock County’s financial crisis. While the House dispensed the rules and passed both bills on 1-19-26, the Senate chose to utilize the traditional process, and the bills will move through their committee references. There was some discussion and disagreement on the floor amongst a few senators on whether the bills should be fast tracked or not. The Senate chose not to suspend rules and to proceed via the regular process to pass the bill. Both bills moved to the Senate for consideration. HB 4574 was discussed in Senate Education on Tuesday, and WV Superintendent of Schools Michelle Blatt answered questions from the committee. No action was taken and the bill was laid over for a future meeting.
HB 4081 establishes the Higher Education Health and Aid Grant. The bill passed the House Education Committee and was on third reading on the House floor today. An amendment was offered by Delegate Young on the House floor during second reading to include buying food. The amendment passed. During third reading, there was a surprising amount of debate around the bill, with a faction of the House opposing the bill. The bill did ultimately pass in a 71-22 vote. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Committee Substitute for HB 4002 establishes the WV Collaboratory, which facilitates the dissemination of policy and research expertise through WVU, Marshall University, and West Virginia State University. The bill passed the House and now awaits consideration by the Senate.
Committee Substitute for HB 4005, the Workforce Development Act of 2026, passed the full House by a vote of 83-5 with 11 members not voting. The bill provides for apprenticeship programs for ages 16 through 18, and clarifies the categories of employment which are prohibited or authorized for those who are under the age of 16. The bill now awaits consideration by the Senate.
HB 4422 permits students in the eighth and ninth grade to attend summer school in order to raise their grades and establish academic eligibility to play sports in the fall. The bill does not require counties to offer summer school but makes eighth and ninth graders eligible for those counties that offer summer school. The bill passed the House and now moves to the Senate for consideration.
SB 388 requires public elementary or secondary school make the Aitken Bible available to certain classrooms. During committee discussion, it was explained that the purpose of this bill was to make the Aitken bible available in 4th, 8th and 10th grade social studies classrooms. No instruction is required by the teacher. The bill is modeled after last year’s “In God We Trust” sign bill as community organizations would provide these bibles at no expense to school systems. While this bill does not alter the instruction provided to students, it’s an example of spending time during the legislative session on priorities that are out of touch with what our teachers and students need for success. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and was passed on the Senate floor by a 30-4 vote. It now moves to the House for consideration.
SB 445 creates a program to include Potomac State College of West Virginia University as an eligible institution for participation in the "Learn and Earn Program." The bill removes reference to the program being a "pilot" program. The bill passed the Senate in a 34-0 vote and moves to the House for consideration.
Bills that have advanced from a committee
SB 428 creates three separate job titles for school bus operators (pay scale based on experience) and includes cafeteria managers (class D & E). This bill is intended as a retention incentive. The bill passed the Senate Education Committee and now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 102 establishes the Summer Feeding for All Program. This bill looks for innovative ways to provide assistance to students in need during summer break and other times. The bill was advanced from the Senate Education Committee and now moves to the Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 155 creates adjunct teaching permits requiring 4 years of experience in the subject or bachelor’s degree. It also stipulates a 1-year permit period, requires providing a mentor teacher, and prohibits adjunct permit personnel from teaching special education. Under the bill, permit holders would be hired only if no traditionally certified applicants apply for the position. While Education WV recognizes the need for many school systems to fill positions, there are a few amendments that we believe should be made in the bill to provide guardrails. The bill passed the committee and moves to the full Senate for consideration.
SB 196 relates generally to liability insurance coverage for boards of education. A Committee Substitute for SB 196 was advanced by the committee, and the bill now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 11 allows certain Teachers Retirement System members to exchange unused leave for monetary compensation. The bill provides a cash bonus in exchange for up to 10 days unused days of personal leave. This bill passed the Senate last year but failed to make it across the finish line in the House. SB 11 passed the Senate Education Committee and moves to Senate Finance for consideration.
SB 216 creates the Restoring Private Schools Act of 2026. This bill gives vast autonomy to private schools. It removes requirements such as vaccinations, instructional days, attendance documentation, and assessments. During the Senate Select Committee on School Choice, Senator Clements offered an amendment requiring standardized assessments, with results available to parents. The amendment failed. Senator Woelfel offered an amendment requiring schools to require and keep immunization records. The amendment failed. The bill passed the committee and will move to the Senate floor for consideration.
SB 170 allows a county board of education participating in a multicounty vocational center to determine that a career technical education program be part of the local high school and allows the program to be a state-approved program of study or a locally created program of study. The Senate Select Committee on School Choice advanced the bill and referred it to the Senate Education Committee.
Committee Substitute for HB 4014, the Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act, establishes WV Micro-Credential programs and expands apprentice training tax credits. The Committee Substitute moves the Micro-Credentials program under Higher Education instead of Workforce. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and awaits consideration by the House Finance Committee.
HB 4656 addresses chronic absenteeism. This bill creates a Student Support Specialist in each county to work with students with chronic absenteeism. The bill also looks at preventative measures for intervention rather than punitive measures. The bill advanced from the House Education Committee and now moves to the House Judiciary Committee for consideration.
Be sure to take advantage of all the ways to stay informed about the 2026 Legislative Session:
- Weekly Wrap Up (email and posted on Legislative Lookout page)
- Daily Updates (posted on the Legislative Lookout page)
- Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, Bluesky
- Read Education WV’s Special Legislative Edition of Rising Voice
Daily Updates
Friday, January 23, 2026 – 10th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
No action to report.
No committee meetings today.
Senate adjourned until Monday at 2 PM.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Third Reading
HB 4081 Establishing the Higher Education Health and Aid Grant. The bill was on third reading on the House floor today. An amendment was offered by Delegate Young on the House floor during second reading to include buying food. The amendment passed. There was a surprising amount of debate around the bill, with a faction of the House opposing the bill. The bill did ultimately pass in a 71-22 vote. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Second Reading
Comm Sub for HB 4002 establishes the WV Collaboratory. The bill allows WVU, Marshall and WV State to conduct, manage or participate in research projects and opportunities of interest to lawmakers and citizens in areas of workforce development, public education and other areas. The bill passed the House Education Committee and was on second reading on the House floor today. Amendments were adopted during second reading that includes all state-funded higher education institutions in the bill.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4005 clarifies the categories of employment which are prohibited or authorized for persons in West Virginia who are under the age of 18 and clarifies youth apprenticeships prohibited or authorized in such categories of employment and to be known as "The Workforce Development Act of 2026." This bill was amended with some code cleanup as well as a restoration of the prohibition of certain job categories. The bill was advanced to third reading.
First Reading
HB 4422 permits students in eighth and ninth grade to attend summer school in order to raise their grades and establish academic eligibility to play sports in the fall. This does not require counties to provide summer school. The bill advanced to second reading.
No committee meetings today.
House adjourned until Monday at 1:30 PM.
Thursday, January 22, 2026 – 9th Day of Session
SENATE
Floor Session
No action to report.
Education
The Senate Education Committee considered two bills today:
SB 388 requires public elementary or secondary school make the Aitken Bible available to certain classrooms. During committee discussion, it was explained that the purpose of this bill was to make the Aitken bible available in 4th, 8th and 10th grade social studies classrooms. No instruction is required by the teacher. The bill is modeled after last year’s “In God We Trust” sign bill as community organizations would provide these bibles at no expense to school systems. While this bill does not alter the instruction provided to students, it’s an example of spending time during the legislative session on priorities that are out of touch with what our teachers and students need for success. The bill advanced from the committee and moves to the floor for consideration.
SB 445 creates a program to include Potomac State College of West Virginia University as an eligible institution for participation in the "Learn and Earn Program". The bill removes reference to the program being a "pilot" program. The bill advanced from the committee and moves to the Senate floor for consideration.
HOUSE
Floor Session
Today on the House floor the following bills were on second reading with the right to amend:
The Committee Substitute for HB 4005, the Skills to Work bill, was postponed one day retaining its place on the calendar.
HB 4081 Establishing the Higher Education Health and Aid Grant. An amendment was offered by Delegate Young to include buying any food. The amendment passed. The bill now advances to third reading.
On first reading was HB 4002 establishing the WV Collaboratory. The bill advances to second reading.
Committee Meetings:
House Educational Choice Subcommittee
Tony Erwin gave a presentation on Ignite Athletics and homeschooling during the subcommittee meeting.
House Higher Education Subcommittee
The following bills were on the Committee Hearing stage:
HB 4116 relates to the WV Invests Grants Program. The bill would expand the program to include post secondary students for emergency medical services.
HB 4119 establishes the WV TEACH Scholarship Program. This would create a Child-Care Help scholarship.
HB 4152 creates the Workforce-Education Partnership Act. This bill incentivizes business owners to invest in the development of skilled labor in our vocational and high school classes.
HB 4533 includes Potomac State College for the “Learn and Earn Program”.
House Education Committee (full committee)
The following bills were on the Committee hearing stage:
HB 4656 relates to chronic student absenteeism. The bill is intended to implement preventative rather than punitive measures for students. It makes the definition more specific rather than broad based. The bill also provides for a Student Support Specialist in schools.
HB 4660 moves any remaining sixth grade classifications from elementary schools to middle schools. The bill would now consider the sixth grade in a middle school category. The bill does not require relocation of the sixth grade if they are not at the middle school location.
Both bills will now advance for markup and passage.
**Please note that introduced bills are not reported on until they are on a committee agenda and considered active.
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 – 8th Day of Session
HOUSE
Floor Session
The following bills were on first reading in the House:
The Committee Substitute for HB 4005, the Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act HB 4081, to create the Higher Education Health and Aid Grant Both bills advance to the second reading with the right to amend.
Committee Meetings
Education
Today in House Education HB 4422, permitting students in eighth and ninth grade to attend summer school in order to raise their grades and establish academic eligibility to play sports in the fall. This does not require counties to provide summer school. The motion to advance HB 4422 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass was adopted.
SENATE
Floor Session
Another short floor session with no education bills on the calendar.
Senator Chapman did speak out against how House Bills 4574 and 4575 (bills to address Hancock County Schools’ financial crisis) were not taken up for immediate consideration yesterday and instead sent to separate committees. She claimed the students and educators of Hancock County deserved better and that the Senate had no problem suspending the rules when it came to passing other bills, showing its constituents that Education was not a priority. Senator Woelfel then stood up and praised President Smith for taking the time to really look at the bills instead of immediately passing them.
Committee Meetings
Finance
Today in Senate Finance, the School Building Authority gave a presentation on the mission of the organization, their budget, and their funding requests. The SBA currently has 109 projects that are in the active and design phases.
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 – 7th Day of Session
HOUSE
Committee Meetings
Education
Today in House Education, the Committee Substitute for HB 4002, establishing the WV Collaboratory, was discussed. The bill allows WVU, Marshall and WV State to conduct, manage or participate in research projects and opportunities of interest to lawmakers and citizens in areas of workforce development, public education and other areas. The motion to report the Committee Substitute for HB 4002 to the floor with the recommendation it do pass adopted.
House Ed conducted hearings on HB 4014, Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act and HB 4422, permitting students in 8th and 9th grade to attend summer school in order to raise their grades and establish academic eligibility for fall sports. Both bills will be on a future agenda for markup and passage.
SENATE
Committee Meetings
Education
SB 428 creates three separate job titles for school bus operators (pay scale based on experience) and includes cafeteria managers (class D & E). The bill passed the committee and will be reported to the floor with the recommendation it do pass but first be referred to the Committee on Finance. This bill is intended for a retention incentive.
SB 171 creates the WV Released Time Education Act. Chairman Grady announced the bill is off the agenda for just today.
The committee also heard a presentation on charter schools. The presenter discussed maximizing infrastructure with less red tape, underused public-school buildings and making them available at or below market values, yield/increase matching funds from federal money, as there is strong support from the federal administration for doing so.
**Please note that introduced bills are not reported on until they are on a committee agenda and considered active.
2026 Legislature: Weekly Wrap Up 1-23-26
The first full week of 2026 Legislative Session has concluded, and the pace was fairly slow compared to some recent years. The education committees in each chamber advanced a handful of bills and heard numerous presentations on various topics like charter schools and athletics for homeschool students.
The structure of the House Education Committee includes three subcommittees. The subcommittees held hearings on several bills this week, so we expect those bills to move to full committee agendas soon. You can read the subcommittee agendas and the bills discussed this week in our Daily Legislative Updates on the Legislative Lookout page on our website.
Also this week, the Senate passed a resolution, SR 6, to recognize the invaluable service of WV school custodians.
Priority Issues
Bills to address salaries and PEIA have not been on a committee agenda yet, which is not unusual for this early in the session for high price tag items. There have been multiple pay raise bills introduced, but it is unclear at this time which version will end up moving. While the Governor proposed an average pay increase of 3% during his State of the State, the House leadership has indicated they are looking at a 5% increase.
SB 526 is an important bill to watch regarding PEIA. This bill modifies the 80/20 method of calculation of the employer and employee contribution percentages for PEIA premiums. This change would be beneficial to employees and result in lower costs.
Education WV has been working with lawmakers on other bills to offer employees relief on PEIA, including modifying the spousal surcharge, but this legislation has not yet been introduced.
Bills that have passed one chamber
HB 4574 and HB 4575 have both passed the House.
- HB 4574 relates to providing condition-based emergency funding for a financially distressed county.
- HB 4575 makes Supplemental Appropriation to State Board of Education.
- These two bills are the response to Hancock County’s financial crisis. While the House dispensed with the rules and passed both bills on 1-19-26, the Senate chose to utilize the traditional process, and the bills will move through their committee references. There was some discussion and disagreement on the floor amongst a few senators on whether the bills should be fast tracked or not. The Senate chose not to suspend rules and to proceed via the regular process to pass the bill. Both bills move to Senate Education, then Senate Finance for consideration.
HB 4081 establishes the Higher Education Health and Aid Grant. The bill passed the House Education Committee and was on third reading on the House floor today. An amendment was offered by Delegate Young on the House floor during second reading to include buying food. The amendment passed. During third reading, there was a surprising amount of debate around the bill, with a faction of the House opposing the bill. The bill did ultimately pass in a 71-22 vote. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Bills that have advanced from a committee
SB 388 requires public elementary or secondary school make the Aitken Bible available to certain classrooms. During committee discussion, it was explained that the purpose of this bill was to make the Aitken bible available in 4th, 8th and 10th grade social studies classrooms. No instruction is required by the teacher. The bill is modeled after last year’s “In God We Trust” sign bill as community organizations would provide these bibles at no expense to school systems. While this bill does not alter the instruction provided to students, it’s an example of spending time during the legislative session on priorities that are out of touch with what our teachers and students need for success. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and moves to the Senate floor for consideration.
SB 428 creates three separate job titles for school bus operators (pay scale based on experience) and includes cafeteria managers (class D & E). This bill is intended as a retention incentive. The bill passed the Senate Education Committee and now moves to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.
SB 445 creates a program to include Potomac State College of West Virginia University as an eligible institution for participation in the "Learn and Earn Program." The bill removes reference to the program being a "pilot" program. The bill advanced from the Senate Education Committee and moves to the Senate floor for consideration.
Comm Sub for HB 4002 establishes the WV Collaboratory. The bill allows WVU, Marshall and WV State to conduct, manage or participate in research projects and opportunities of interest to lawmakers and citizens in areas of workforce development, public education and other areas. The bill passed the House Education Committee and was on second reading on the House floor today. Amendments were adopted during second reading that includes all state-funded higher education institutions in the bill.
The Committee Substitute for HB 4005 clarifies the categories of employment which are prohibited or authorized for persons in West Virginia who are under the age of 18 and clarifies youth apprenticeships prohibited or authorized in such categories of employment and to be known as "The Workforce Development Act of 2026." This bill, on second reading on the House floor today, was amended with some code cleanup as well as a restoration of the prohibition of certain job categories. The bill was advanced to third reading.
HB 4422 permits students in eighth and ninth grade to attend summer school in order to raise their grades and establish academic eligibility to play sports in the fall. This does not require counties to provide summer school. The bill passed the House Education Committee and is on first reading on the House floor.
**Please note that introduced bills are generally not reported on until they are on a committee agenda and considered active.
Be sure to take advantage of all the ways to stay informed about the 2026 Legislative Session:
- Weekly Wrap Up (email and posted on Legislative Lookout page)
- Daily Updates (posted on the Legislative Lookout page)
- Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, Bluesky
- Read Education WV’s Special Legislative Edition of Rising Voice
