This bill proposes significant amendments to the Code of West Virginia, focusing on the repeal and modification of various reporting requirements related to workers' compensation and insurance. Notably, it eliminates the Insurance Commissioner's obligation to report to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance concerning workers' compensation funds, occupational pneumoconiosis claims, and the state agency workers' compensation program. Additionally, the requirement for employers to report post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) claims and for the Insurance Commissioner to publish automobile insurance rates is removed. The bill also mandates that the Insurance Commissioner post a flood insurance notification on the agency's website to inform public entities about the importance of adequate flood insurance.

Moreover, the bill introduces new provisions for the Industrial Council, including a claims indexing method for injured workers to facilitate information sharing among insurers. It recognizes PTSD as a compensable occupational disease for first responders under specific conditions, with the amendments related to PTSD coverage set to expire on July 1, 2026, unless extended by the Legislature. Additionally, the bill modifies the framework governing the State Entities Workers Compensation Program, allowing the commissioner to assess necessary fees or surcharges and establishing the "State Entities Workers Compensation Program Fund." It also streamlines oversight by removing the requirement for the commissioner to submit monthly reports to the joint committee and updates consultation language with the State Board of Risk and Insurance Management, ultimately aiming to enhance the efficiency and management of workers' compensation claims.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 23-2C-5, 23-4-1f, 33-2-15a, 33-2-21a, 23-1-2, 23-1-17, 33-20-19, 33-20B-6, 33-20B-8