This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 18A-4-2d, to the Code of West Virginia, aimed at enhancing teacher salaries through a market pay enhancement system. The legislation outlines the need for competitive compensation to attract and retain certified teachers in West Virginia, particularly in regions with higher living costs. It establishes a formula for determining market pay enhancements based on the median home prices in the teacher's county and contiguous counties, with adjustments made every five years. The State Board of Education is tasked with calculating these enhancements and certifying the amounts to the State Auditor.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the market pay enhancements will be distributed as a lump sum to certified teachers in counties where the enhancements are applicable, starting July 15, 2027. These payments will be in addition to the state minimum salary schedule and will be subject to personal income tax. Importantly, the bill clarifies that teachers will not have the right to grievance for any disparities in market pay. The State Board of Education is also required to report on the market pay enhancements to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance and may propose rules for legislative approval to implement this section.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18A-4-2d