WV HB5254

Creates the Minority Health Advisory Team (MYHAT) as a 20-member advisory body to the Commissioner of the Bureau for Public Health, with members appointed by August 1, 2026, including representatives from medical schools, state agencies, health providers, and the general public.

Establishes a Community Health Equity Initiative Demonstration Project effective July 1, 2026, running for four years until July 1, 2030, to develop model programs addressing social determinants of health through comprehensive community development.

Sets eligibility requirements for participating communities: approximately one square mile area, population of at least 3,000 persons with 25% minorities, at least 55% living in rental housing, and at least 50% with income under $27,000.

Cites legislative findings that African Americans in West Virginia face significant health and socioeconomic disparities, including higher infant mortality rates, higher poverty rates, and disproportionate representation in the prison system (3.6% of general population but one-third of adult prison population).

Requires participating communities to submit annual progress reports to the advisory team starting November 1, 2026, with the advisory team reporting to the Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources Accountability starting January 1, 2026.