The proposed bill aims to establish a limitation of civil liability for academic medical centers and teaching hospitals in West Virginia, which are affiliated with medical and dental schools. It introduces a new article to the Code of West Virginia, detailing findings that highlight the critical shortage of healthcare providers in the state and the importance of training and retaining these professionals within West Virginia. The bill outlines the necessity for modern healthcare facilities and resources to enhance medical education and training, emphasizing the role of these institutions in improving the state's healthcare delivery system.

Key provisions of the bill include definitions of "academic medical center" and "teaching hospital," as well as requirements for maintaining liability insurance of at least $2 million per occurrence. The liability of these institutions for claims arising from alleged acts or omissions is limited to the amount of their insurance coverage. The bill specifies that these amendments will apply to all relevant causes of action filed on or after May 1, 2025, and clarifies that the provisions do not waive any other legal immunities or protections that these entities may have.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 55-7L-1, 55-7L-2, 55-7L-3, 55-7L-4, 55-7L-5