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, including health insurance and workers compensation supplemental wage replacement coverage. Additionally, the bill increases the annual expenditure limit for educational and training supplies and fire prevention promotional materials from $500 to $5,000. The new section outlines authorized expenditures for volunteer fire departments, including personal protective equipment, compliance equipment, operating expenses, and insurance premiums, while also establishing strict guidelines for the management and reporting of these funds.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for the transition to the West Virginia Checkbook fiscal reporting system, allowing volunteer fire departments to allocate funds for necessary technology and services to comply with this requirement by January 1, 2026. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining separate bank accounts for state funds and mandates the retention of financial records for five years. The bill also stipulates that any unauthorized use of funds will result in deductions from future distributions, ensuring accountability and proper use of the allocated resources.

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