This bill aims to amend the West Virginia Code regarding the Birth-to-Three program, specifically focusing on the compensation for therapists and other professionals who provide services but are not employed by a state agency. The proposed change includes a provision that mandates a 25 percent increase in payments for these contracted professionals, effective July 1, 2026. This increase is intended to enhance the financial support for those delivering early intervention services to children with developmental delays.

Additionally, the bill outlines the creation of the "West Virginia Birth-to-Three Fund," which is an interest-bearing account established to cover costs associated with early intervention services. The fund will receive money from various sources, including legislative appropriations, transfers from health department funds, public agency contributions, private donations, and client fees. The bill ensures that any remaining balance in the fund at the end of the fiscal year will not revert to the state Treasury but will be retained for future use in accordance with the article's purposes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-5K-6