The proposed bill establishes the West Virginia CARES Fund, designed to provide long-term care insurance benefits for eligible employees in the state. It addresses current gaps in long-term care coverage, particularly for seniors who often depend on family caregivers or exhaust their savings to qualify for Medicaid. The bill creates a trust account funded by employee payroll premiums to reimburse approved long-term services and supports. It emphasizes a coordinated approach among state agencies, including the West Virginia Health Care Authority and the Department of Human Services, to ensure effective program implementation and administration.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the West Virginia Department of Human Services, which include determining eligibility, approving services, and managing payments. It establishes a long-term services and supports trust commission with various stakeholders to oversee operations and recommend improvements. The legislation introduces a premium assessment for employees, including provisions for self-employed individuals, and mandates an appeal process for eligibility determinations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the availability and quality of long-term care services in West Virginia while ensuring accountability and transparency in its administration.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 33-64-1, 33-64-2, 33-64-3, 33-64-4, 33-64-5, 33-64-6, 33-64-7, 33-64-8, 33-64-9, 33-64-10, 33-64-11, 33-64-12, 33-64-13, 33-64-14