Allowing health benefit plan sponsors to communicate electronically with covered persons

HB 3142 allows health benefit plan sponsors (like employers or insurers) to send electronic communications (such as plan updates or notices) to covered persons (employees or plan members) instead of paper, provided they follow specific rules. Before using electronic communication, sponsors must confirm the covered person routinely uses electronic methods, and must give them a clear opportunity to opt out of electronic delivery. The bill requires sponsors to document that all conditions are met before switching to electronic communications. This directly affects employees and plan members covered under health benefit plans in West Virginia, ensuring they retain the choice to receive paper communications. The policy change standardizes electronic communication procedures while preserving consumer choice.