Workers’ Comp Bill Advances to West Virginia Regular Session

A change in terminology may have helped win an endorsement for draft legislation addressing West Virginia’s ongoing efforts to privatize its workers’ compensation system.

The bill calls on the state insurance commissioner to inform lawmakers of proposed rule, policy and guideline changes to workers’ compensation.

This kind of insurance covers workplace injuries and illnesses.

The joint Judiciary Committee approved the bill after replacing references to “oversight” with “reporting requirements.”

Tuesday’s vote was not unanimous. Critics argue it may scare private insurers who can start competing for these policies on July 1.

Bill supporters say they have no plan to derail privatization.

The regular legislative session began Wednesday.