This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to modify the rules regarding athletic eligibility for transfer students. Specifically, it allows students to transfer schools and retain their athletic eligibility at least once during their first two years of secondary school, which now includes only grades nine and ten, as opposed to the previous provision that allowed transfers during the first four years, including grades nine through twelve. The West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission is required to update its rules to reflect this change before the 2026-2027 school year and may implement an emergency rule if necessary.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that students are not restricted from transferring more than once for specific reasons, such as individual circumstances that warrant a case-by-case eligibility determination by the West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission or for any other reasons allowed under its rules. This legislative change aims to streamline the transfer process for students while maintaining their eligibility to participate in athletic activities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-2-25e