HB 4950
To establish the West Virginia Freedom and Innovation Pilot Act of 2026
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill establishes the West Virginia Freedom and Innovation Pilot Act of 2026, allowing counties to participate in a pilot program designed to offer greater local control over education. Counties interested in participating would receive a block grant of $5,775 per enrolled student, with potential annual increases contingent on student enrollment growth. The program would grant counties autonomy over salaries, benefits, class sizes, and calendars, while still adhering to certain federal requirements. The pilot program will be reviewed by the Legislative Oversight Commission on Education Accountability in 2031.
Key provisions
- Counties can opt into a pilot program for education innovation.
- Participating counties receive a block grant of $5,775 per enrolled student.
- Eligible counties may receive a 1% annual increase in funding based on enrollment growth.
- Counties have full authority over salaries, benefits, class sizes, and calendars.
- The program is not subject to certain staffing ratios and salary schedules.
- Local shares for benefits (PEIA, Teachers' Retirement System, and unfunded liability) remain unchanged.
- The pilot program begins on July 1, 2026.
- The program will be reviewed by the Legislative Oversight Commission on Education Accountability in 2031.
Who is affected
- West Virginia Counties
- School Districts
- Students
- County Boards of Education
- Teachers and School Staff
Notable changes
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