Bill > HB2976

This bill establishes and expands the Volunteer Fire Department Workers' Compensation Subsidy Program, which helps volunteer fire departments manage their workers' compensation insurance premiums. The program, administered by the State Auditor, provides financial assistance to volunteer fire departments to offset premium increases, with departments required to submit documentation such as previous and current premium invoices. To be eligible for the subsidy, departments must be in good standing with the State Fire Marshal, registered with the Auditor's Office, and agree to have the subsidy paid directly to their insurance carrier. The subsidy amount is calculated using a formula that compares current premiums to base year premiums, with a cap of 100% of the premium increase. The bill adds a new provision requiring the Auditor and Fire Commission to work towards quantifying fair workers' compensation rates and developing more equitable tracking and billing methods for various classifications within volunteer fire departments and emergency rescue personnel. The program was initially established in 2011 and mandates a review after three years of operation, with the Auditor required to submit a report to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance detailing the program's implementation, funds distributed, and participating departments.

Budget and Finance

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2976&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill