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Bill

SB 1079

Requiring PEIA accept premium payments by credit card or state purchasing card

2026 Regular Session

West Virginia bill requiring PEIA health insurance to accept credit card and state purchasing card payments, expanding payment flexibility for state employees and retirees.

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Bill Summary · SB 1079

Legislative bill overview

SB 1079 requires the Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) in West Virginia to accept premium payments via credit card or state purchasing card in addition to existing payment methods. This legislation mandates expanding payment options for state employees and retirees who currently participate in PEIA's health insurance programs.

Why is this important

For state employees and retirees, credit card payment options provide convenience and flexibility, particularly for those without easy access to traditional banking or who benefit from credit card rewards programs. However, the bill creates operational and financial considerations for PEIA, as credit card processors typically charge merchant fees (2-3% of transaction value) that could ultimately affect program costs or be passed along to participants.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Who absorbs credit card processing fees—PEIA's budget, individual enrollees, or general state revenues—and whether this increases overall insurance costs
  • Payment infrastructure: Whether PEIA has adequate existing systems to securely process credit card payments or requires new technology investments
  • State purchasing card policies: Potential conflicts with state procurement rules governing appropriate use of state purchasing cards for personal employee benefit payments

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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