The House Committee on Health and Human Resources had a consideration of two House bills at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 31 in 215-E.
House Bill 2515 is a bill that would exempt the sale and installation of mobility enhancing equipment for West Virginia citizens. Currently, healthcare providers are exempt from sales tax when it comes to the purchase and modification of medical equipment for the purpose of increasing a patient’s mobility. This bill would extend that tax exemption to West Virginia citizens who are subject to paying for the mobility enhancing equipment themselves.
Under this bill, mobility enhancing equipment would include wheelchair docking systems for vehicles and homes, car seats for mobility-impaired individuals, and other similar medical equipment.
Manis Williamson, the resident of Mason County, testified before the committee and argued for the necessity of the passage of House Bill 2515. In paying for the remodel for his van in order to accommodate his physically impaired wife, Williamson had to pay over $30,000.
“This bill would correct what I believe is an injustice to the West Virginia people,” said Williamson. “The state is taxing people because they cannot walk.”
House Bill 2515 was passed by the House Health and Human Resources Committee, and was advanced to House Finance Committee for consideration.
House Bill 2490 was also advanced by House Health and Human Resources, and was moved to the House Floor with the recommendation that it should pass.
House Bill 2490 would prohibit the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Resources from proposing or enforcing any rules which prevent recreational water facilities from making necessary upgrades, renovations, or repairs.
“I think this is a great bill,” said Delegate Margaret Staggers (D-Fayette). “This will allow more of our pools to open up and function, and we can get the kids out and moving this summer.”
