This bill introduces the Rural Health Transformation Oversight Act, which aims to enhance oversight of the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program in West Virginia. The legislation outlines the dire health statistics in the state, including low life expectancy, high obesity and smoking rates, and a severe overdose crisis. It mandates the Secretary of Health to provide detailed monthly reports to the Legislature regarding the RHT Program, which is funded by approximately $200 million awarded to West Virginia for the fiscal years 2026 to 2030. The purpose of the RHT Program is to improve healthcare access, quality, and outcomes in rural communities.

The bill specifies the contents of the required reports, which must include an itemized budget, lists of vendors and programs funded, anticipated outcomes, and data variables being tracked. These reports are to be submitted monthly starting April 1, 2026, and will be accompanied by formal presentations to the Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources Accountability. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-67-1, 16-67-2, 16-67-3