This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia to authorize the creation of a central purchasing program specifically designed to reduce supply costs for volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services first responders. It introduces new legal language that allows the secretary of each department to promulgate rules to implement this program, emphasizing the importance of bulk purchasing or discounted formats to achieve cost savings.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing provisions regarding the powers of department secretaries by replacing the term "shall" with "may" in several instances, indicating a shift from mandatory to discretionary authority. This includes the ability to enter contracts, conduct internal audits, and grant or withhold consent for rule proposals. The bill also ensures that the powers of the secretaries do not conflict with federal laws or jeopardize funding for programs, while also outlining the need for a comprehensive review of agency practices to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5F-2-2