The Judiciary Committee met for an extended meeting yesterday which encompassed a multitude of bills. One bill, Senate Bill 487 would improve ability of law enforcement to locate and return missing persons.
In a medical professional liability action-if state staffing standards are met, it establishes a conclusive presumption of adequate staffing, and a rebuttable presumption that adequate supervision to prevent accidents was provided. Likewise, if staffing is less than state regulations dictate, there arises a rebuttable presumption of inadequate staffing or supervision which was a contributing cause of a fall, injury or death. The bill was reported to the House.
Senate Bill 485 clarifies notification requirements for insurance purposes. This bill removes a notice provision regarding transfer of a policyholder between companies within the same insurance group and adds it to another section. The bill was reported to the House.
Senate Bill 90 relates to transferring Safety and Treatment Program from DHHR to DMV. This requires that moneys from the DHHR Safety and Treatment Fund be transferred to the DMV Treatment Fund. This bill also creates a new subsection that requires the DMV to create grievance and appellate procedures by promulgation of rules that allows participants to appeal to the regular courts of the state after they have exhausted administrative remedies. The bill was reported to the House.
Senate Bill 561 permits the Alcohol Beverage Control Administration to request the assistance of law enforcement. The bill accomplishes 15 separate items and permits ABCA to request and obtain the assistance of local law enforcement in enforcing liquor laws. The bill was reported to the House.
Senate Bill 369 relates to generic drug products. This bill removes the requirement that pharmacies “pass along” acquisition cost savings with respect to generic drugs to insured customers. Pharmacies still must pass along those savings to uninsured individuals. The bill was reported to the House.
Senate Bill 669 allows appointment of commissioners to acknowledge signatures. This bill a new article to allow the appointment of commissioners to acknowledge signatures performed in or out of the State by persons residing in or out of the State covering deeds, leases, and other writings pertaining to West Virginia property for recordation in the State. The bill was reported to the House.
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