SB 1004
Adding voter approval requirement to close or consolidate schools
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill would require West Virginia school districts to seek voter approval before closing or consolidating any school, with limited exceptions. Specifically, it would necessitate a public referendum unless a construction bond issue was previously approved by voters and included the schools to be affected. The bill also outlines procedures for public hearings, impact statements, and written reasons to be provided before a final decision is made.
Key provisions
- Requires voter approval for school closures or consolidations.
- Exception: Existing projects approved before the law's effective date are exempt.
- Mandates a public referendum during primary, general, or special elections.
- Requires county boards to prepare written reasons and an impact statement.
- Specifies content for the impact statement, including student transportation, financial impacts, school capacity, staffing levels, and community effects.
- Establishes procedures for public hearings, including venue, opportunity for expression, and time limits.
- Requires the State Board of Education to develop rules for conducting public hearings and preparing impact statements.
Who is affected
- School districts in West Virginia
- Students
- School personnel
- County school boards
- Taxpayers
Notable changes
- Adds a voter approval requirement for school closures and consolidations.
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