This bill amends the qualifications and appointment processes for the State Health Officer, the Commissioner of the Bureau for Public Health, and the Commissioner of the Bureau of Senior Services in West Virginia. Specifically, it changes the educational requirement for the Commissioner of the Bureau for Public Health from a doctorate degree in public health administration to a master's degree in public health. Additionally, it clarifies that both the Commissioner and the State Health Officer must serve full-time and not engage in any other business or employment that could interfere with their duties.

Furthermore, the bill establishes the Bureau of Senior Services, replacing references to the Commission on Aging, and outlines that the Commissioner of the Bureau of Senior Services must be appointed by the Governor with Senate consent. The new language specifies that the commissioner must have relevant training and experience in senior issues and prohibits them from holding any other public office or being a member of a political committee. The commissioner is also required to take an oath of office before assuming their duties and will report directly to the Governor or their designee.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-1-5, 16-5P-4
Committee Substitute: 16-1-5, 16-5P-4