Here’s a look at some of our victories in the 2018 Legislature:
Workers’ Compensation
During the 2018 legislative session, the West Virginia Legislature enacted HB 4628 that terminates the WV Deficit Reduction Surcharge effective January 1, 2019. WV workers’ compensation policies will no longer be assessed the 9% deficit surcharge after December 31, 2018. The WV Regulatory premium surcharge will remain in effect on all workers’ compensation policies at 5%. The Regulatory surcharge applicability remains unchanged.
“Gag Clauses” on Pharmacists
SB 46 permits pharmacists to inform customers of lower cost alternative drugs. Commercial contracts between a pharmacy and a PBM are a common feature in the distribution and sales chain between the original manufacturer and the end consumer. The terms of some of these contracts prohibit pharmacists from informing consumers of less expensive alternatives, which may include purchasing out-of-pocket over using an insurance plan. The passage of this bill into law permits pharmacists to discuss options with their customers, helping all our small and independent pharmacists compete.
Sales Tax Exemptions
Sales tax exemptions for professional services were kept intact and efforts to eliminate the exemption died in Senate and House Finance committees.
