This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 18A-4-2d, to the Code of West Virginia, aimed at enhancing teacher salaries through a market pay enhancement system. The legislation outlines the need for competitive compensation to attract and retain certified teachers in West Virginia, particularly in regions with a higher cost of living. It establishes a formula for calculating market pay enhancements based on the median home prices in the teacher's county and contiguous counties, with adjustments made every five years. The State Board of Education is tasked with determining the necessary figures and certifying the enhancements to the State Auditor.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that these market pay enhancements will be distributed as a lump sum to certified teachers in affected counties, starting July 15, 2026, and will be subject to personal income tax. The enhancements are designed to be in addition to the existing state minimum salary schedule and any county supplements. Importantly, the bill clarifies that teachers will not have the right to grievance procedures regarding market pay disparities. The State Board of Education is also required to report on the market pay enhancements to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance and may propose rules for legislative approval to implement this section.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18A-4-2d