The bill amends the definition of "participating public employer" within the West Virginia Emergency Medical Services Retirement System Act to include not only county commissions and political subdivisions but also "any emergency medical services agency licensed under 16-4C-6a that is designated by a county commission to provide emergency response through a county emergency dispatch center." This expansion broadens the range of entities eligible to participate in the retirement system, potentially increasing the number of emergency medical services personnel and 911 operators who can access retirement benefits.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies definitions related to "substantial gainful employment" and "physical or mental impairment" to align with those used by the United States Social Security Administration. It establishes criteria for crediting "years of service," specifying that members will receive one twelfth of a year of service for each month credited with an hour of service during their first and last years of employment, while excluding periods of disability payments from service credit. The introduction of the term "911 personnel" further solidifies the inclusion of these individuals in the retirement system, thereby enhancing the benefits available to those who serve in critical public safety roles.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-5V-2