WV HB5232

Establishes the "Police Partnering With Communities Fund" within the West Virginia State Treasurer's Office to reimburse full housing costs for police officers who live in distressed areas they serve

Defines "distressed areas" as low-income census tracts with individual poverty rates of at least 20% or median family income no greater than 80% of the area median, particularly those with higher-than-average crime rates

Requires officers to submit documentation of their residence in a distressed area and proof of employment with a city, municipal, or county police department to qualify for reimbursement

Funding source to be determined through a separate appropriations bill, with the State Treasurer's Office assigning staff to oversee the fund

Effective date of July 1, 2026