West Virginia Expands Patient Healthcare Choices

Governor signs bill to give PEIA members more flexibility in their coverage

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:00am

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Governor Patrick Morrisey of West Virginia has signed HB 4965, a measure designed to give PEIA (Public Employees Insurance Agency) members greater flexibility and control over their healthcare options.

Why it matters

This new law aims to empower West Virginia patients by allowing them to make more personalized choices about their medical coverage and treatments, which could improve access to care and health outcomes across the state.

The details

HB 4965 provides PEIA members, who include state and local government employees, teachers, and retirees, with expanded options to customize their healthcare plans. The new law gives these patients more flexibility to choose the coverage, providers, and treatments that best fit their individual needs.

  • On March 31, 2026, Governor Morrisey signed HB 4965 into law.

The players

Governor Patrick Morrisey

The Governor of the State of West Virginia who signed HB 4965 into law.

PEIA

The Public Employees Insurance Agency, which provides health insurance coverage to state and local government employees, teachers, and retirees in West Virginia.

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What they’re saying

“Today, I signed HB 4965 to ensure that patients in West Virginia have more flexibility and control over their care.”

— Governor Patrick Morrisey, Governor of West Virginia

What’s next

The new law will go into effect immediately, allowing PEIA members to begin taking advantage of the expanded healthcare options.

The takeaway

This legislation represents a significant step forward in empowering West Virginia patients to make more personalized choices about their medical coverage and treatments, which could lead to improved access to care and better health outcomes across the state.