A newly introduced bill in the West Virginia Senate proposes major changes to the West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission (WVSSAC), including converting it into a state agency.
Key Provisions of Senate Bill 804
Known as the WVSSAC Reform Bill, the legislation would transition the commission from a nonprofit to a state agency starting July 1. This change would subject it to audits and require legislative approval for any new rules.
Under the bill, the WVSSAC would function under the state board but remain independent of the West Virginia state superintendent and board of education. The governor would appoint an executive director responsible for overseeing rule violations and disputes. Any disagreements with the director’s decisions would be appealed to the West Virginia Intermediate Court of Appeals.
Changes to Governance and Classification
The proposal shifts decision-making authority from school principals to athletic directors, who would serve as official representatives within the commission. Additionally, a new school classification system would be introduced, factoring in transfer numbers and athletic performance to determine competitive balance.
Legislative Support and Next Steps
Sponsored by 22 senators and led by Sen. Jay Taylor of Taylor County, the bill has been referred to the Senate Education Committee for review. If approved, these changes could significantly impact the governance and structure of high school athletics in West Virginia.
