Bill > HB2527

This bill establishes a tuition reimbursement program specifically for employees of the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation in West Virginia. The program allows corrections workers to receive financial support for undergraduate courses at state higher education institutions. To be eligible, employees must first apply and be accepted to an institution and seek other financial assistance like Pell grants. The reimbursement starts at 20 percent of total tuition costs per year, with the potential to reach 100 percent reimbursement after five consecutive years of employment with the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Continued reimbursement is contingent upon maintaining academic progress standards set by the institution and remaining employed in the corrections department. The program requires employees to provide proof of employment and can only be used after other dedicated financial aid sources are exhausted. The state retains the ability to establish additional limitations on the program as deemed appropriate, ensuring flexibility in program implementation while supporting professional development for corrections employees.