WV SB1082

Authorizes the West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) to establish a special investigations unit to investigate false, fraudulent, or fictitious claims, with the option to outsource these functions to qualified private firms.

Imposes civil liability of treble damages (three times the improper benefits received) plus attorney fees for persons who knowingly secure benefits they are not entitled to or submit false claims.

Establishes criminal penalties including felony charges with up to 10 years imprisonment and fines up to $10,000 for bribery, false claims, or conspiracy to obtain fraudulent payments from PEIA plans.

Grants the PEIA Director authority to issue subpoenas, request search warrants, administer oaths, suspend payments to providers during investigations, and refer violations to licensing boards and law enforcement.

Authorizes the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to issue Class A (unmarked) license plates for vehicles used by PEIA investigators conducting undercover work.