This bill aims to amend and update several sections of the West Virginia Code related to the West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission (WVSSAC). Key provisions include clarifying the commission's rulemaking authority, allowing it to revoke coaching credentials for coaches found guilty of illegally recruiting student athletes, and modifying rules regarding athletic eligibility for students transferring schools. Specifically, the bill mandates that the WVSSAC must adjust its rules to allow students to transfer schools and retain athletic eligibility, with specific provisions for eighth-grade students transitioning to ninth grade. Additionally, it establishes criteria for incoming ninth graders to participate in athletic programs based on their academic performance in eighth grade.

The bill also introduces a new section, 18-2-25f, which outlines the eligibility requirements for eighth-grade students in secondary schools, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a minimum GPA. Furthermore, it updates the definitions in the State Administrative Procedures Act to include the WVSSAC as an agency responsible for rulemaking. Overall, the legislation seeks to enhance the governance of interscholastic athletics in West Virginia by ensuring fair eligibility standards and maintaining the integrity of coaching practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-2-25, 18-2-25e, 29A-3A-1, 18-2-25f