New year, new laws coming to the commonwealth

(The Center Square) — The new year signals change, specifically new laws which will take effect in Virginia, especially in the health care sector.

The Commonwealth will see a slew of new laws aimed at improving health insurance coverage, recognizing specific out-of-state counseling licenses, streamlining home studies for adoption and changes to the state’s medical marijuana oversite.

Hearing aids

Earlier this year, the Senate passed legislation requiring health insurers to provide hearing aids for minors at an affordable rate if recommended by a doctor. Every two years, families will be able to receive up to $1,500 for minor’s hearing devices.

Counseling Compact

The House passed a bill making it easier for counselors to practice across state lines through Compact permits, making Virginia the 20th state to join the Counseling Compact. Eligible licensed counselors must be licensed in at least one member state.

Continuity of care

In addition, the House also passed a bill to improve the continuity of care through health insurance carriers, which will be required to notify enrollees if a provider is removed from the carrier’s panel. Even if the provider is removed, patients can still receive care for up to 90 days following removal.

The new law makes exceptions for pregnant women to continue care with their provider through postpartum. It also provides care for up to 180 days for those with life-threatening conditions. Additionally, the provider may continue care for patients receiving inpatient treatment until discharged from the inpatient facility.

Paid sick leave

Under a new law passed by the Senate, employers must provide paid sick leave to health care providers and grocery store workers. Currently, employers are only required to provide sick leave to certain home health care workers. The bill also removes a requirement that workers work on average a minimum of 20 hours per week, or 90 hours per month, to be eligible.

Home studies

Under a new law, home studies for adoptions will become transferable, providing flexibility to the adoption process. The law will allow home studies conducted by adoption agencies or social services boards to be transferred between localities and state-licensed adoption agencies.

Medical Marijuana

A new law will affect the oversight of the commonwealth’s medical marijuana program, transferring it from the Virginia Board of Pharmacy to the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority. The CCA will be required to adopt previously enacted regulations for medical marijuana dispensaries.