This bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 8-15-8b, which allows volunteer fire departments to utilize funds from the Fire Protection Fund for specific expenses. These expenses include health insurance, workers compensation supplemental wage replacement coverage, and costs associated with implementing the State Auditor's West Virginia Checkbook fiscal reporting system. Additionally, the bill increases the allowable expenditure for educational and training supplies and fire prevention promotional materials from $500 to $5,000 per year.

The legislation also outlines the authorized expenditures for volunteer fire departments, which include personal protective equipment, compliance-related equipment, operating expenses, and insurance premiums. It establishes strict guidelines for the use of funds, requiring that any unauthorized expenditures be deducted from future distributions. Furthermore, it mandates that all funds received from state sources be deposited into a dedicated bank account and retained for five years, ensuring transparency and accountability in the financial management of volunteer fire departments.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15A-11-12
Committee Substitute: 8-15-8b
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 8-15-8b