The proposed bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new section, 15-1B-15, known as the "West Virginia National Guard Servicemember's Medical Readiness Act." This legislation is designed to enhance the medical readiness of the state's National Guard soldiers and airmen by establishing a TRICARE premium reimbursement program within the military department. The bill defines "eligible recipient" as a resident member of the West Virginia National Guard who qualifies for TRICARE reserve select or dental program coverage. It allows for reimbursement grants to be awarded to these individuals for premiums paid for individual or family coverage under the TRICARE programs, with specific conditions outlined for eligibility and reimbursement amounts.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if any portion of the premiums is covered by federal or state programs, that portion will not be reimbursed through the TRICARE program. The adjutant general is tasked with creating and publishing policies and guidelines to implement the provisions of this section. Importantly, the act does not allocate funds unless specifically appropriated by the general appropriations act, and it is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-1B-15