This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to allow home confinement officers to participate in the Emergency Medical Services Retirement System. It introduces a new section, designated 16-5V-6f, which outlines the eligibility and process for these officers to join the retirement system. Key changes include the insertion of definitions for "home confinement officer" and their classification as "covered employment." The bill modifies the definition of "member" to include home confinement officers hired on or after July 1, 2025, and those who choose to participate in the retirement system, ensuring they receive retirement benefits comparable to other emergency service personnel.

Additionally, the bill establishes provisions for home confinement officers to transfer from the Public Employees Retirement System to the Emergency Medical Services Retirement System, detailing the process for transferring service credits and assets. It updates definitions related to retirement, including "required beginning date," "retirant," and "totally disabled," and sets specific criteria for total disability. The legislation also outlines a timeline for officers to elect to transfer into the new plan, emphasizing the irrevocable nature of this decision and the conditions for receiving credited service for prior employment. Overall, the bill aims to enhance retirement benefits for home confinement officers while facilitating a structured transition into the new retirement system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-5V-2, 16-5V-6f
Committee Substitute: 16-5V-2, 16-5V-6f
Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute: 16-5V-2, 16-5V-6f