This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 9-5-34, to the Code of West Virginia, which mandates the Bureau of Medical Services to prepare, compile, and file a comprehensive policy manual as a legislative rule. This manual will encompass all policies related to Medicaid programs, benefits, covered and non-covered services, claims processing, and other operational guidance. The Bureau is required to submit this manual to the Secretary of State's office by July 1, 2026, and must also file any subsequent amendments or revisions as legislative rules.

Additionally, the bill allows the Bureau to issue internal guidance or emergency procedures as needed; however, any guidance that remains effective for more than 180 days must be integrated into the legislative rule process. This legislation aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the Bureau's operations by formalizing its policy manual through the legislative rule framework.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-5-34