SB 203
Providing for substantial deference to state school superintendent's interpretations of school laws
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill aims to prioritize the interpretation of West Virginia school laws and rules by the State Superintendent of Schools. It requires county boards of education, superintendents, employees, and the Public Employees’ Grievance Board to give significant weight to the Superintendent’s understanding of these laws. However, the bill includes an exception, stating that interpretations from state or federal courts take precedence. The goal is to ensure consistent application of school law through the Superintendent’s guidance.
Key provisions
- Requires the State Superintendent to provide written interpretations of school laws and rules upon request.
- Mandates that county boards, superintendents, employees, and the Grievance Board give ‘substantial deference’ to the Superintendent’s interpretations.
- Establishes an exception where state or federal courts have already provided an interpretation.
- Applies to interpretations of both school law and State Board of Education rules.
Who is affected
- County Boards of Education
- County Superintendents
- Employees of County Boards of Education
- West Virginia Public Employees’ Grievance Board
- Citizens of West Virginia
Notable changes
- Shifts authority regarding interpretation of school law towards the State Superintendent.
- Creates a hierarchy where court interpretations supersede the Superintendent’s interpretations.
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