This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 8-22A-33b, to the Code of West Virginia, allowing municipalities that employ police officers or firefighters not currently participating in any state retirement system to opt into the Municipal Police Officers and Firefighters Retirement System. The bill outlines the process for these municipalities to elect participation, which must be completed by December 1, 2026. It also stipulates that all new hire police officers and firefighters in these municipalities will automatically become members of the retirement system upon the municipality's election.

Furthermore, the bill establishes specific provisions for police officers and firefighters hired before January 1, 2027, allowing them to choose to participate in the retirement system. It includes requirements for written notification to the West Virginia Consolidated Public Retirement Board regarding their decision to join or decline membership. Importantly, the bill prohibits individuals from transferring service credits or funds from other retirement plans into the Municipal Police and Firefighters Retirement System and restricts participation in other retirement systems once they join this plan.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-22A-33b