CHARLESTON, WV – A new bill, HB 2968, introduced in the West Virginia House of Delegates, seeks to eliminate the Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) as a public healthcare entity while allowing it to continue operating as a private insurance provider.
Key Provisions of HB 2968:
- PEIA will no longer operate as a public healthcare entity after the bill’s effective date.
- Employees will receive a direct monthly payment of $1,100 into a Health Savings Account (HSA) to cover healthcare premiums and medical expenses.
- Employees may choose their own healthcare provider or continue paying into PEIA as a private insurance option.
- The proposed changes would take effect on July 1, 2025.
Supporters of the bill argue that privatizing PEIA gives employees more freedom to choose their healthcare plans. Opponents warn that transitioning PEIA to a private system could result in higher costs and less coverage for public employees.
The bill is currently being considered by the West Virginia Legislature.
