CHILD CARE & EDUCATION Written by Andrea Oxley
HB 4191 HB 4765
SENATE: 31-3 � HOUSE: 89-4 SENATE: 33-1 � HOUSE: 95-0
HB 4191 is one of the most impactful pieces of legislation for West Virginia’ s child care approach in 2026. The bill expands tax incentives for employers who contribute to child care for their workforce, including direct subsidies or partnerships with providers. The goal is to increase access to affordable, reliable care— one of the biggest barriers for working families in West Virginia and a factor in the state’ s dismal workforce participation rate. This bill could improve financial stability and help providers expand capacity or staffing. From an education perspective, greater access to early childhood care supports school readiness and long-term academic outcomes.
HB 4765 delivers pay raises for teachers and school personnel, aiming to improve recruitment and retention across West Virginia’ s education system. More competitive salaries can reduce turnover, leading to greater classroom stability and stronger student outcomes. Salaries for these positions are written into state code, requiring a bill for changes rather than modified through the general budget. HB 4765 will take effect June 2026.
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WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE