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HB 4090

Provide for the employment or acceptance as avolunteer of a Certified Chaplain by public school board

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Elías Coop-González and 9 co-sponsors

Bill permits West Virginia school boards to hire or accept volunteer certified chaplains, potentially expanding spiritual counseling services in public schools while raising church-state separation questions.

To House Public Education
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Bill Summary · HB 4090

Legislative bill overview

HB 4090 would allow West Virginia public school boards to employ or accept certified chaplains as volunteers in their schools. The bill specifically permits schools to hire chaplaincy staff who meet certification requirements, either as paid employees or unpaid volunteers.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses how schools approach spiritual care and counseling services. It clarifies the legal authority of school boards to include chaplains in their staffing decisions, which has become a growing practice in some school districts seeking to provide additional student support services.

Potential points of contention

  • Separation of church and state concerns: Critics may argue that employing chaplains in public schools raises constitutional questions about government-sponsored religious activity, particularly regarding which faiths or denominations would be represented.
  • Definition and oversight of "Certified Chaplain": The bill's effectiveness depends on clear standards for chaplain certification and training. Questions remain about who sets these standards, what qualifications are required, and how chaplains are supervised.
  • Resource allocation and scope of duties: Schools may debate whether chaplain positions represent an efficient use of limited education funding compared to hiring secular counselors or mental health professionals, and what specific roles chaplains would fill.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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