This bill amends sections 18B-17-2 and 18B-17-3 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, to authorize new legislative rules for the Higher Education Policy Commission and the Council for Community and Technical College Education. It specifically includes rules related to the Accountability System, the Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars Program, and the Teacher Loan Repayment Program. Additionally, the bill allows for the establishment of rules concerning the employment and evaluation of presidents at community and technical colleges, reflecting a commitment to enhancing educational accountability and support for teaching professionals in West Virginia.

The bill introduces new legal language that authorizes the legislative rules filed in the State Register on July 19, 2024, for both the Accountability System and the Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars and Teacher Education Loan Repayment Program. It also repeals certain outdated rules, including those related to the acceptance of advanced placement credit and the accountability system, ensuring that the legislative framework remains current and effective in addressing the needs of higher education in the state. Furthermore, amendments to existing rules, such as changes to the Capital Project Management guidelines, emphasize efficient use of space and prioritize funding based on institutional plans and facility utilization rates.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18B-17-2, 18B-17-3