WV HB5145

Establishes the West Virginia Portable Insurance Benefit Plan, a state-sponsored insurance program for independent contractors that provides health, prescription drug, life, and accidental death benefits that remain with the individual rather than being tied to a specific hiring party

Creates a governance structure consisting of a Governor-appointed Director, an 11-member Finance Board (including representatives of independent contractors, hospitals, healthcare providers, and public members), and an advisory board to administer the program

Specifies that hiring party contributions to the portable benefit plan are voluntary and cannot be used to determine employment classification, and contributions by internet or app-based companies are not evidence of employer liability or an employment relationship for workers' compensation purposes

Requires the Finance Board to develop annual and five-year financial plans reviewed by an independent actuary, with provider reimbursement set at minimum 110% of Medicare rates for hospitals and healthcare providers

Mandates that plan offerings match all benefits available through the Public Employees' Insurance Agency, including any future mandated benefits, and establishes penalties including fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment up to five years for fraud or misrepresentation