The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the governance structure of institutional boards of governors, particularly focusing on West Virginia University (WVU) and West Virginia State University (WVSU). Key changes include increasing the number of lay members on the WVU Board of Governors from 12 to 15, and requiring that one member from each board have a background in agriculture, forestry, or related sciences. Additionally, the bill clarifies that elected faculty, student, and classified or non-classified employees will serve as nonvoting advisory members, and it mandates that the Governor consider the needs of the state and its citizens when making appointments to these boards.

The bill also specifies that graduates from the West Virginia Institute of Technology and Potomac State College will have representation on the WVU Board of Governors. It emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives and institutional experience among board members, and it sets forth the terms and eligibility criteria for board members, including the stipulation that student members serve one-year terms while lay members serve four-year terms. Overall, the legislation aims to ensure that the boards are better equipped to address the needs of their respective institutions and the communities they serve.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18B-2A-1, 18B-2A-2
Committee Substitute: 18B-2A-1, 18B-2A-2
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 18B-2A-1, 18B-2A-2
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 18B-2A-1, 18B-2A-2