The bill introduced on February 24, 2025, seeks to create the "West Virginia Portable Insurance Benefit Plan," aimed at providing portable insurance benefits specifically for independent contractors in the state. It establishes a framework that includes definitions for key terms such as "director," "hiring party," and "independent contractor." Contributions to the plan by hiring parties are voluntary and will not affect employment classification, while contributions from internet or application-based companies do not imply liability for hiring parties. The plan will be managed by a director appointed by the Governor, with oversight from a Finance Board responsible for ensuring fiscal stability and setting premium costs based on the ability to pay.

The legislation also includes provisions for public engagement, requiring the Finance Board to hold hearings in each congressional district to gather feedback on the financial plan, which must be finalized after considering public input. The bill outlines the director's authority to negotiate with insurance providers and execute necessary contracts, while also establishing penalties for misrepresentation and fraud. Additionally, it allows for benefits to be extended to retired independent contractors and their dependents, and introduces various insurance options, including dental and retirement plans, which participants can choose to enroll in. The director is tasked with creating a preferred provider system and detailing the payment responsibilities of independent contractors, potentially offset by contributions from hiring parties.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-16E-1, 5-16E-2, 5-16E-3, 5-16E-4, 5-16E-5, 5-16E-6, 5-16E-7, 5-16E-8, 5-16E-9, 5-16E-10, 5-16E-11, 5-16E-12, 5-16E-13, 5-16E-14, 5-16E-15, 5-16E-16, 5-16E-17, 5-16E-18