The proposed bill introduces the "Safe School Events Music Act" by adding a new section, 18-2-25f, to the Code of West Virginia. This legislation aims to establish standards for music played at interscholastic athletic events sanctioned by the West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission (WVSSAC). It prohibits the use of explicit music, including clean versions of explicit songs, to ensure that the environment at these school-sponsored events aligns with educational standards and community expectations. The bill outlines definitions for "school-sponsored music," "explicit song," and "clean version of an explicit song," and emphasizes that all music played must be appropriate for a school setting.

Additionally, the bill mandates the WVSSAC to adopt rules governing the implementation of these standards, which will include approval responsibilities for school principals, procedures for addressing violations, and progressive penalties for non-compliance. Enforcement measures are also included, allowing contest officials or WVSSAC representatives to halt any music that violates the established rules. The WVSSAC is required to have these rules in place by July 1 following the bill's enactment, with the new regulations taking effect in the subsequent school year.

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