SB 737
Authorizing county boards of education to accept volunteers as certified chaplains
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill allows West Virginia county school boards to hire or accept certified chaplains as volunteers to provide support and programs for students, staff, and parents. Chaplains would not be required to meet standard state certification or licensing requirements, and the county boards would be responsible for selecting and overseeing them. The bill also includes provisions to limit the liability of chaplains who are employed or volunteer.
Key provisions
- County boards of education can hire or accept certified chaplains.
- Chaplains are not required to meet state certification or licensing requirements.
- County school boards select and oversee chaplains.
- School boards must conduct background checks on chaplains.
- The bill prohibits employing or accepting chaplains who are registered sex offenders.
- Chaplains are protected from liability for actions taken in accordance with their service.
- Liability protections do not apply to malicious or intentionally harmful actions.
- School boards can employ or accept more than one chaplain.
Who is affected
- County school boards
- Students
- School staff
- Parents
- Certified chaplains
Notable changes
- Allows for volunteer chaplains without requiring standard certification.
- Provides a limited liability shield for chaplains.
- Mandates background checks for chaplains.
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