Permitting retired teachers to substitute up to 180 days without penalty of losing retirement

This bill allows retired teachers in West Virginia to work as substitute teachers for up to 180 days per academic year without losing their monthly retirement benefits. It directly affects retired teachers participating in the state Teachers Retirement System who wish to substitute. The bill establishes a clear 180-day annual limit (replacing inconsistent county calculations), requires the retirement board to set this standard, and permits retired teachers to choose whether to contribute to their retirement from substitute pay - though employers are not required to make contributions on their behalf. The change aims to address teacher shortages while preserving retirement benefits.