WV SB728

County commissions would be authorized to increase compensation for elected county officials (sheriffs, county clerks, circuit clerks, assessors, and prosecuting attorneys) based on Consumer Price Index changes.

Beginning March 1, 2027, and every two years thereafter, county commissions must review the Consumer Price Index and determine if their budget can support salary increases of at least 2% but not exceeding the CPI increase over the prior two years.

The bill removes the current requirement for State Auditor certification of a county's fiscal condition before elected officials can receive salary increases.

Counties more than 90 days delinquent on regional jail per diem payments are prohibited from granting compensation increases to elected officials.

Salary calculations for determining increases must include any additional compensation officials receive under existing fee and tax collection provisions.