The bill amends the definition of "long-term substitute" within the West Virginia Code, specifically in section 18A-1-1. A long-term substitute is now defined as a substitute employee who fills a position for more than thirty consecutive instructional days, regardless of whether the position is vacant or the regular employee is absent. The bill stipulates that a position expected to exceed thirty consecutive instructional days must require the individual to hold the appropriate credential as per State Board rule, and the position must be listed as a regular, full-time position that is not filled by a regular employee.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that for the purposes of another section of the code (5-16-2), a long-term substitute does not include a retired employee hired to fill the vacant position. This redefinition aims to provide clearer guidelines for the employment of long-term substitutes in public schools, ensuring that the necessary credentials are held and that the positions are appropriately classified. The changes will take effect 90 days after passage, on June 12, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18A-1-1
Enrolled Version: 18A-1-1