This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 16-5V-6g, to the Code of West Virginia, 1931, aimed at allowing county emergency medical services officers to participate in the Emergency Medical Services Retirement System. It provides a mechanism for those currently in the Public Employees Retirement System to elect to transfer to the new system by a specified deadline of August 31, 2026. The bill outlines the process for this transfer, including the crediting of service years and the transfer of assets from the Public Employees Retirement System to the Emergency Medical Services Retirement System. It also stipulates that once an officer elects to transfer, that decision is irrevocable, and they will not qualify for active membership in any other retirement system while employed in covered roles.

Additionally, the bill details the procedures for calculating the assets to be transferred, including the use of actuarial valuations and interest rates. It specifies that emergency medical services officers who were employed prior to July 1, 2026, but not on that date, can still become members upon rehire, with their prior service counted if they have not withdrawn their contributions. The bill also includes provisions for the transfer of contributions and the conditions under which retirement can commence for those who transfer, ensuring that the transition to the new retirement system is structured and equitable for the officers involved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-5V-6g