The West Virginia State Legislature has introduced House Bill 4331, aimed at providing full-time employees of county school boards with an optional lump sum payment for accrued personal leave upon termination of employment. The bill, introduced on January 10, 2024, seeks to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, §18A-4-10b, which outlines the conditions under which this payment would be made.

Under the proposed legislation, employees who resign, retire, or pass away would have the option to receive a lump sum payment for their unused personal leave at their usual rate of pay. This payment would be issued by the next regular payday following the termination of employment. Notably, the bill specifies that no deductions for retirement contributions will be taken from these lump sum payments, as they do not contribute to service credit calculations.

The introduction of this bill addresses a significant issue for school employees, as it provides a financial safety net during transitions out of employment. Currently, many employees may lose accrued leave benefits upon termination, which can create financial strain. By allowing for a lump sum payment, the bill aims to enhance the financial security of school employees and their families.

While the bill has garnered support for its potential benefits, it may also face scrutiny regarding its fiscal implications for county school boards. Critics may raise concerns about the financial burden this could place on local budgets, particularly in times of economic uncertainty.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders, including educators and school administrators, will likely engage in discussions about the bill's potential impacts. If passed, House Bill 4331 could set a precedent for how accrued leave is handled in the education sector, potentially influencing similar policies in other states. The next steps will involve committee reviews and possible amendments as lawmakers weigh the bill's benefits against its costs.