Bill > HB3488

This bill creates the West Virginia Homeschool Student Athletics Participation Act, which establishes a framework for homeschool students to participate in interscholastic athletic competitions with West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission (WVSSAC) member schools under specific conditions. The bill defines homeschool students as those receiving education through home instruction and allows them to compete in regular-season athletic contests, provided their homeschool athletic organization meets certain guidelines similar to WVSSAC requirements, such as health, safety, and eligibility standards. Importantly, participating homeschool teams will not be included in official WVSSAC rankings, standings, or postseason competitions, and their participation is entirely voluntary for member schools. The WVSSAC will oversee the implementation, ensure homeschool organizations meet basic eligibility criteria, and handle any disputes that arise. The bill also includes provisions for insurance coverage, game conduct, and a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the law is found invalid, the rest remains in effect. The legislation aims to provide homeschool students with athletic opportunities while maintaining the integrity of existing school sports systems, and will take effect 30 days after being approved by the Governor.