This bill amends sections 18-5G-15 and 18B-2A-1 of the Code of West Virginia, focusing on the qualifications and appointment processes for members of the West Virginia Professional Charter School Board and institutional boards of governors. It establishes that the Professional Charter School Board will consist of five voting members appointed by the Governor with Senate consent, ensuring that no more than three members belong to the same political party and that they represent diverse geographic areas. A significant new insertion allows appointed lay members of the boards of governors to serve on the Professional Charter School Board. The bill also outlines the removal process for board members and specifies the board's immunity from civil liability in certain circumstances.

Additionally, the bill details the composition and qualifications for members of the institutional boards of governors, requiring lay members to be appointed by the Governor while ensuring diversity in political party affiliation and residency. It includes an insertion that permits appointed members of the state Professional Charter School Board to serve on the governing boards, thereby expanding the pool of eligible candidates. Furthermore, the bill provides for the president of the institution to allocate resources for the board of governors' activities, ensuring that all expenses incurred by both the board and the institution are covered by designated funds. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the governance of charter schools and higher education institutions in West Virginia by promoting qualified and diverse representation and improving collaboration between governing bodies.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-5G-15, 18B-2A-1