The resolution introduced on March 5, 2026, requests the Joint Committee on Government and Finance to study the feasibility of establishing a flexible, short-duration, on-demand respite care program for seniors and their caregivers in West Virginia. This initiative is prompted by the state's aging population and the increasing number of families acting as primary caregivers for elderly relatives who require some assistance but do not need full-time care. Current state-supported programs often provide services in rigid weekly blocks that may not align with the intermittent needs of caregivers, leading families to opt for larger service packages than necessary, which can result in higher costs for both families and the state.

The study aims to explore various aspects of implementing this respite care program, including the cost comparison between flexible respite care and nursing home placement, potential savings from delaying institutionalization, and the possibility of modifying existing programs to allow for more flexible service utilization. Additionally, it will assess the feasibility of a pilot program for caregiver support in rural areas, examine funding mechanisms, and evaluate workforce capacity to ensure adequate provider availability. The committee is expected to report its findings and any legislative recommendations before the next regular session of the Legislature.