Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 79
[originating in the Committee on Finance]
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the equalization of magistrate pay.
Whereas, Currently West Virginia magistrates are elected countywide and represent only one county; and
Whereas, Currently West Virginia has a two-tier system for compensating magistrates based on population of the county; and
Whereas, Caseloads vary greatly by county; and
Whereas, Magistrates should receive equal pay for equal work; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Legislature hereby requests the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the equalization of magistrate pay; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Legislature hereby requests the Joint Committee on Government and Finance undertake a comprehensive study in conjunction the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals of equalizing magistrate caseloads and compensation; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2014, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.