The bill amends the West Virginia Code to include the United States Space Force in the definitions related to military service and benefits for public employees, ensuring that members of the Space Force receive the same rights and benefits as those serving in other military branches. It updates the definition of "armed forces of the United States" to explicitly mention the Space Force and outlines provisions for military service credit for public employees who have served in the armed forces, including the Space Force. The legislation specifies conditions for receiving credited service, the process for purchasing military service credit, and the calculation of benefits, thereby enhancing recognition and benefits for Space Force members within West Virginia's public employee retirement system.

Additionally, the bill introduces the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, aimed at facilitating the educational success of children from military families. It establishes guidelines for enrollment, transfer of educational records, and eligibility for extracurricular activities, while creating the West Virginia Council for Educational Opportunity for Military Children to coordinate efforts among state entities. The bill also outlines the structure and responsibilities of the Interstate Commission on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, which will oversee compliance and dispute resolution among member states. Overall, the bill seeks to improve both military service benefits and educational opportunities for military families in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-10-15, 8-22A-2, 9A-3-1, 11-21-12, 15-2-28, 15-2A-2, 18-7A-17a, 18-10F-2, 30-29-6, 48-31-102, 62-16-3
Committee Substitute: 5-10-15, 8-22A-2, 9A-3-1, 11-21-12, 15-2-28, 15-2A-2, 18-7A-17a, 18-10F-2, 30-29-6, 48-31-102, 62-16-3
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 5-10-15, 8-22A-2, 9A-3-1, 11-21-12, 15-2-28, 15-2A-2, 18-7A-17a, 18-10F-2, 30-29-6, 48-31-102, 62-16-3
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 5-10-15, 8-22A-2, 9A-3-1, 11-21-12, 15-2-28, 15-2A-2, 18-7A-17a, 18-10F-2, 30-29-6, 48-31-102, 62-16-3