This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to allow county boards of education the option to obtain professional or other liability insurance coverage from any licensed insurance carrier in the state, in addition to the existing option of obtaining coverage from the State Board of Risk and Insurance Management. The bill specifies that the insurance provided must cover claims related to alleged negligence resulting in bodily injury or property damage while individuals are acting within the scope of their duties. It also establishes minimum coverage amounts and requires county boards to purchase excess coverage.

Additionally, the bill mandates that county boards of education provide written notice of insurance coverage to all insured individuals, including teachers and school board members, detailing the coverage limits and the duty to defend. The amendments also clarify that the provisions apply to public charter schools that choose to obtain insurance under this section. Notably, the bill includes changes to the language regarding the defense of school personnel in lawsuits, ensuring that coverage is not provided for acts outside the scope of employment or motivated by malicious intent.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 29-12-5a