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 higher living costs. It establishes a framework for calculating market pay enhancements based on the median home prices in the teacher's employment region compared to the state median. The State Board of Education is tasked with determining these figures every five years, starting January 1, 2026, and will certify the necessary enhancements to the State Auditor.

The bill also stipulates that these market pay enhancements will be distributed annually to certified teachers in counties where the enhancements are applicable, beginning July 15, 2026. These payments will be in addition to the state minimum salary schedule and will be subject to personal income tax. Furthermore, the legislation specifies that there will be no grievance process for market pay disparities, and mandates the State Board of Education to report on the enhancements to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance. The bill allows for rulemaking to implement its provisions effectively.

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