A bill introduced in the West Virginia House of Delegates aims to abolish the Public Employees Insurance Agency PEIA, a program that provides health insurance for state employees.
The proposal has sparked debate, with proponents citing long-standing issues with the agency, including criticism that led to a teacher’s strike in 2018. Republican Del. Charles Sheedy, who is sponsoring the bill, shared his personal experience as a former state employee and noted that healthcare used to be a key benefit offsetting low wages.
However, opponents, including Democratic Del. Mike Pushkin, argue that abolishing PEIA could lead to pay cuts for state employees, many of whom rely on the benefits.
Retired teacher Stacey Strawderman echoed concerns that eliminating PEIA would harm public employees, suggesting that instead of dismantling the program, lawmakers should increase funding to make it more sustainable.
If the bill passes, Strawderman hopes lawmakers will find an alternative solution to support public employees.
This debate highlights the tension between addressing budgetary concerns and ensuring the well-being of state employees who rely on healthcare benefits as part of their compensation package.