Member Press Release

Senate Calendar and Committee Schedule for Monday, January 15, 2024

January 15, 2024
Written by Cheyenne

The Senate will convene at 11 a.m.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

SCR 9: US Merchant Marine Joseph Ward Teter Memorial Bridge
SCR 10: Urging WV congressional delegation support legislation authorizing county governments to sell FEMA property
SCR 11: US Marine Corps PFC Noel Harper Fields Memorial Bridge
SCR 12: US Army PVT Raymond Lee Perkins Memorial Bridge
SCR 13: US Navy S1 Paul McCue Bridge
SCR 14: US Army PFC William Gorman Memorial Bridge
SCR 15: Chief Edward “Eddie” Keesecker Memorial Bridge
SCR 16: Urging US Congress enact reforms to federal permitting policies to accelerate deployment of new energy infrastructure
SR 5: Designating January 15, 2024, as Child Advocacy Day at Legislature

THIRD READING

Eng. SB 164: Relating generally to trespassing

SECOND READING

Com. Sub. for SB 2: Authorizing DEP to promulgate rules

FIRST READING

There are no bills on First Reading for Monday, January 15, 2024.

Scheduled Committee Meetings

3 p.m.: Judiciary (208W)

SB 219: Relating to Uniform Controlled Substances Act
Com. Sub. for SB 60: DOT Bundle

SB 60: DMV rule relating to motor vehicle titling
SB 61: DMV rule relating to dealer licensing
SB 62: DMV rule relating to handicapped parking permits
SB 63: DOH rule relating to construction and reconstruction of state roads
SB 64: DOH rule relating to traffic and safety rules
SB 65: Multimodal Transportation Faculties rule relating to valuation of used rolling stock and equipment

3 p.m.: Finance (451M)

Budget Hearing: Office of the West Virginia Attorney General – Patrick J. Morrisey, West Virginia Attorney General
Budget Hearing: West Virginia State Auditor’s Office – John B. McCuskey, West Virginia State Auditor
Budget Hearing: West Virginia Secretary of State – Mac Warner, West Virginia Secretary of State

** Committee times and agendas are subject to change **

Senate Bills to be Introduced Monday, January 15, 2024

SB 444: Health insurance coverage for certain emergency services (Deeds, Smith, Stover, Stuart; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 445: Reducing certification periods and renewal fees for EMS personnel (Deeds, Grady, Rucker, Smith, Stover, Stuart; Government Organization)
SB 446: Increase WV Natural Resources Police Officer Retirement System accrued benefit for certain members (Deeds, Smith, Stover, Stuart; Pensions then Finance)
SB 447: Directing Commissioner of Natural Resources to establish hyperlink on agency websites to allow applicants for hunting or fishing licenses connection with optional firearms safety classes (Trump; Agriculture and Natural Resources)
SB 448: Requiring age-appropriate instruction on the Holocaust (Oliverio; Education)
SB 449: Limiting use of fireworks in municipalities and residential areas (Hamilton, Deeds; Judiciary)
SB 450: Requiring photo ID on EBT cards (Phillips, Hunt, Jeffries, Nelson, Queen, Smith, Stuart, Swope, Takubo, Tarr, Taylor, Trump, Weld; Health and Human Resources)
SB 451: Requiring mandatory training for prosecutors provided by WV Prosecuting Attorneys Institute (FN) (Phillips, Hunt, Jeffries, Nelson, Queen, Rucker, Smith, Stuart, Swope, Takubo, Taylor, Trump; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 452: Designating certain water and wastewater facilities as emergency project (Tarr, Jeffries; Economic Development)
SB 453: Requiring pricing and payment transparency from pharmacy benefits managers contracting with PEIA (Tarr; Health and Human Resources)
SB 454: Clarifying banks duty to retain and procure records (Nelson; Banking and Insurance)
SB 455: Relating generally to banking authority of State Treasurer’s Office (Nelson; Banking and Insurance)
SCR 17: Reaffirming support of WV Legislature for State of Israel and Jewish people (Woodrum, Blair, Azinger, Barrett, Boley, Chapman, Clements, Deeds, Grady, Hamilton, Hunt, Jeffries, Karnes, Martin, Maynard, Nelson, Oliverio, Phillips, Plymale, Queen, Roberts, Rucker, Smith, Stover, Stuart, Swope, Takubo, Tarr, Taylor, Trump, Weld)
SR 6: Honoring life of Edith Levy, Holocaust survivor (Woodrum)

* (FN) indicates the bill has a Fiscal Note

* (IB) indicates the bill is an Interim Bill

Bills that Have Passed the Senate as of Friday, January 12, 2024 (31)

SB 142: Clarifying deadline to file annual report for companies authorized to do business in WV (Pending House introduction)
SB 143: Creating WV Guardian Program (Pending House introduction)
SB 144: Requiring each county board to ensure that its meetings are open to public through in-person attendance and broadcast live on its website (Pending House introduction)
SB 146: Creating adult education taskforce (Pending House introduction)
SB 147: Adding definition of “ammunition” for purposes of obtaining state license to carry concealed deadly weapon (Pending House introduction)
SB 148: Establishing auto-renewal program for wildlife licenses (Pending House introduction)
SB 149: Relating to municipalities required to be represented on county authority boards (Pending House introduction)
SB 150: Clarifying when magistrate vacancies shall be filled (Pending House introduction)
SB 151: Clarifying terms and offense of human smuggling (Pending House introduction)
SB 154: Increasing penalties for drug possession and updating list of offenses (Pending House introduction)
SB 155: Creating Violent Crime Prevention Act (Pending House introduction)
SB 156: Requiring certain documents that contain wage records be considered confidential (Pending House introduction)
SB 157: Requiring one-year residency within district or county to fill vacancy in Legislature (Pending House introduction)
SB 158: Enhancing penalties for fleeing officer (Pending House introduction)
SB 159: Prohibiting persons convicted of certain crimes against minors from holding positions on boards of education (Pending House introduction)
SB 160: Updating language and increasing penalties for indecent exposure (Pending House introduction)
SB 162: Establishing Summer Feeding for All Program (Pending House introduction)
SB 163: Establishing aggravated felony offense of reckless driving resulting in death (Pending House introduction)
SB 165: Creating pilot program for recovery residences in Cabell County (Pending House introduction)
SB 166: Updating contested elections procedures (Pending House introduction)
SB 168: Granting municipal fire marshal authority to assist law-enforcement officer (Pending House introduction)
SB 169: Allowing physician assistants to own practice (Pending House introduction)
SB 170: Relating to compensable diseases of certain firefighters covered by workers’ compensation (Pending House introduction)
SB 171: Prohibiting county commissions from adopting authorization that exceeds state law regarding agriculture operations (Pending House introduction)
SB 172: Revising requirements of local school improvement councils (Pending House introduction)
SB 173: Modifying certain guidelines for motor vehicle dealers, distributors, wholesalers, and manufacturers (Pending House introduction)
SB 175: Updating offenses of extortion and attempted extortion (Pending House introduction)
SB 176: Relating to permissible expenditures by Water Development Authority from Infrastructure Fund (Pending House introduction)
SB 177: Protecting consumers against automatic renewals without consent (Pending House introduction)
SB 178: Relating to dental health care service plans (Pending House introduction)
SB 179: Requiring sheriff to serve child abuse and neglect petitions (Pending House introduction)

Resolutions that Have Completed Legislation as of Friday, January 12, 2024 (2)

HCR 1: Raising a Joint Assembly to hear remarks of the Governor (Adopted, 01-10)
HCR 13: Commemorating the life of Marilyn Kay Parsons (Adopted, 01-11)

Committee times and agendas are subject to change. Follow @WVSenClerk on Twitter for updates.

All Senate Committee meetings and floor sessions are available for both live streaming and to watch again in our archives. The link to the Senate’s archived video page can be found here:http://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00289/Harmony/en/View/UpcomingEvents.

Contact: Jacque Bland at (304) 357-7999

Member Press Release

This Week in the House of Delegates

January 12, 2024
Written by Cheyenne

For the week ending Jan. 12, 2024

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — When members of the West Virginia House of Delegates gaveled in for the second regular session of the 86th Legislature Wednesday, Jan. 10, they did so in a freshly renovated chamber, enjoying several improvements both to safety and accessibility.

Several new faces among the membership resulted in House Speaker Roger Hanshaw, R-Clay, adjusting a few leadership roles, including a new Judiciary Committee Chairman.

Tom Fast, R-Fayette, who served as vice chairman of the House Judiciary Committee since 2020, has been named its chairman. Delegate David Kelly, R-Pleasants, will serve as vice chair while continuing as chairman of the Committee on Jails and Prisons.

“Tom is not only a well-respected attorney in his private life, but he also has a reputation for asking the kinds of detailed questions that help us create effective laws,” Hanshaw said. “And with Delegate Kelly’s perspective from his background in law enforcement, I know that committee will continue to do the deliberative, heavy lifting it’s become known for.”

The House unanimously passed an organizational resolution on the first day of session to establish the Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Delegate Jarred Cannon, R-Putnam, was appointed as chairman of the select committee, and Delegate Jordan Maynor, R-Raleigh, will serve as its vice chairman.

“I am honored to serve as the inaugural chairman for this committee,” Cannon said. “In the face of the rapid evolution of AI technology, it is critically important that West Virginia positions itself at the forefront to ensure it is integrated responsibly.

“This committee will dedicate itself to a thorough examination of potential legislative actions that align with the best interests of all West Virginians.”

Deputy Speaker Matthew Rohrbach, R-Cabell, started the session with a new role in the National Conference of State Legislatures, having been selected to serve a two-year term as vice chair of the organization’s Standing Committee on Health and Human Services. The committee works on the national level to protect states’ interests in federal decisions across a variety of matters, including behavioral health, Medicaid, maternal and child health, health workforce and prescription drugs.

“As we continue to work closely on health matters here in West Virginia, it’s an honor and a privilege to collaborate with states throughout the country while we work together to protect our individual independence on the federal level,” Rohrbach said.

The Committee on Workforce Development has a new vice chairman in Delegate Kathie Hess-Crouse, R-Putnam, who will work alongside its continuing chairman Evan Worrell, R-Cabell.

Less than 24 hours before the first gavel of the 2024 regular session, a new member took the oath of office. Republican James Robert “JB” Akers II, who was appointed by the governor to fill the unexpired term for the 55th House District, will represent the southwestern portion of Kanawha County.

“Growing up in a rural area and my years in Charleston have instilled in me a deep understanding of this diverse district: its urban pulse and rural heartbeat,” Akers said. He will serve on both the Judiciary Committee and the Banking and Insurance Committee.

Both the Judiciary and the Health and Human Resources committees advanced legislation this week. A total of 682 bills have been introduced in the House, and the 60-day, regular legislative session ends at midnight March 10.

Contact: Ann Ali at (304) 340-3323

Member Press Release

Senate Calendar and Committee Schedule for Friday, January 12, 2024

January 12, 2024
Written by Cheyenne

Friday, January 12, 2024 – 3rd Day of Session

The Senate will convene at 9 a.m.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

SCR 8: US Army Corporal Clemon Knapp Memorial Bridge

THIRD READING

Eng. SB 142: Clarifying deadline to file annual report for companies authorized to do business in WV
Eng. SB 143: Creating WV Guardian Program
Eng. SB 144: Requiring each county board to ensure that its meetings are open to public through in-person attendance and broadcast live on its website
Eng. SB 146: Creating adult education taskforce
Eng. SB 147: Adding definition of “ammunition” for purposes of obtaining state license to carry concealed deadly weapon
Eng. SB 148: Establishing auto-renewal program for wildlife licenses
Eng. SB 149: Relating to municipalities required to be represented on county authority boards
Eng. SB 150: Clarifying when magistrate vacancies shall be filled
Eng. SB 151: Clarifying terms and offense of human smuggling
Eng. SB 153: Making adoption records accessible for medical purposes
Eng. SB 154: Increasing penalties for drug possession and updating list of offenses
Eng. SB 155: Creating Violent Crime Prevention Act
Eng. SB 156: Requiring certain documents that contain wage records be considered confidential
Eng. SB 157: Requiring one-year residency within district or county to fill vacancy in Legislature
Eng. SB 158: Enhancing penalties for fleeing officer
Eng. SB 159: Prohibiting persons convicted of certain crimes against minors from holding positions on boards of education
Eng. SB 160: Updating language and increasing penalties for indecent exposure
Eng. SB 161: Creating emeritus physician license
Eng. SB 162: Establishing Summer Feeding for All Program
Eng. SB 163: Establishing aggravated felony offense of reckless driving resulting in death
Eng. SB 164: Relating generally trespassing
Eng. SB 165: Creating pilot program for recovery residences in Cabell County
Eng. SB 166: Updating contested elections procedures
Eng. SB 168: Granting municipal fire marshal authority to assist law-enforcement officer
Eng. SB 169: Allowing physician assistants to own practice
Eng. SB 170: Relating to compensable diseases of certain firefighters covered by workers’ compensation
Eng. SB 171: Prohibiting county commissions from adopting authorization that exceeds state law regarding agriculture operations
Eng. SB 172: Revising requirements of local school improvement councils
Eng. SB 173: Modifying certain guidelines for motor vehicle dealers, distributors, wholesalers, and manufacturers
Eng. SB 175: Updating offenses of extortion and attempted extortion
Eng. SB 176: Relating to permissible expenditures by Water Development Authority from Infrastructure Fund
Eng. SB 177: Protecting consumers against automatic renewals without consent
Eng. SB 178: Relating to dental health care service plans
Eng. SB 179: Requiring sheriff to serve child abuse and neglect petitions

SECOND READING

There are no bills on Second Reading for Friday, January 12, 2024.

FIRST READING

Com. Sub. for SB 2: DEP rule relating to alternative emission limitations during startup and shutdown operations

Scheduled Committee Meetings

There are no scheduled committee meetings for Friday, January 12, 2024.

** Committee times and agendas are subject to change **

Senate Bills to be Introduced Friday, January 12, 2024

SB 301: Clarifying that tenancy includes persons who reside in sober living home (Woelfel; Judiciary)
SB 302: Authorizing child sexual abuse and sexual violence prevention program and in-service training in child sexual abuse prevention (Woelfel; Education)
SB 303: Amending penalty of simple possession of marijuana from misdemeanor crime to civil violation (Woelfel; Judiciary)
SB 304: Amend and reenact codes concerning distribution of certain taxes and surcharges to benefit volunteer fire departments and EMS providers (Phillips; Government Organization then Finance)
SB 305: Requiring purchases of certain commodities and services from state use program partners (FN) (Hamilton; Government Organization then Finance)
SB 306: Equipment Right to Repair Act (Hamilton; Agriculture and Natural Resources)
SB 307: Penalty for murder in first degree (FN) (Phillips; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 308: Relating to eliminating limitations period for civil action based on personal action of childhood sexual assault or abuse (Woelfel; Judiciary)
SB 309: Relating to authorizing a child or childcare tax credit (Woelfel; Finance)
SB 310: Relating to exempting acquisition and utilization of mobile facility which performs mammography or low density computerized tomography (IB) (Deeds, Grady; Health and Human Resources)
SB 311: Relating to coverage for non-stress fetal tests (Rucker; Banking and Insurance then Finance)
SB 312: Require Child Protective Services to interview mandatory reporters who submit abuse or neglect referrals (Swope, Phillips; Judiciary)
SB 313: Require doula services to be covered and reimbursed by Medicaid and WV Public Employees Insurance Act (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 314: Requiring shelter for animals exposed to cold weather (Chapman; Agriculture and Natural Resources then Judiciary)
SB 315: Exempting ad valorem property tax on property used for divine worship, educational, and charitable purposes (FN) (Rucker; Finance)
SB 316: Limitation on value of prize or gifts awarded by brewer or distributor (Tarr; Judiciary)
SB 317: Transferring child welfare enforcement responsibilities to WV State Police (FN) (Smith; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 318: Modify process of when parental rights are terminated (Trump, Weld, Woelfel; Judiciary)
SB 319: Require pharmacies dispense prescriptions to senior citizens at the lowest price in the nation (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
SB 320: Remove requirement for wineries to serve food when serving wine (Rucker; Judiciary)
SB 321: Limitations upon municipalities’ power to restrict purchase and storage of weapons and ammunition (Trump; Government Organization)
SB 322: Relating to definition of sexual assault (Tarr; Judiciary)
SB 323: Create tax credit related to childcare expenses (Woelfel; Finance)
SB 324: Reorganizing School Building Authority to School Maintenance Authority (Taylor; Education)
SB 325: Relating to the distribution of drugs to safety net providers and contract pharmacies (Takubo; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
SB 326: Creating WV Black Lung Program (FN) (Caputo; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 327: Relating to providing funding for the Hope Scholarship Program and the parameters thereof (Woelfel; Finance)
SB 328: Providing voters with ability to identify and verify their ballot cast (FN) (Boley; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 329: Extending foster care managed care contract (IB) (Deeds, Grady, Plymale, Takubo, Woodrum; Health and Human Resources)
SB 330: Create and fund a psychiatric residency program (IB) (Deeds, Grady, Takubo; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 331: Eliminating cap on the maximum amount of money in county’s financial stabilization fund (Clements; Government Organization)
SB 332: Relating to roadable aircraft on WV highways (Clements; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
SB 333: Dissolving PEIA and converting to employer-owned mutual insurance company (Taylor; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 334: Enabling WVSU and Bluefield State University to offer associate degrees (Grady; Education then Finance)
SB 335: Modifying witness fee and mileage rate paid by state to match federal court system (Grady; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 336: Return to WV Tax Credit Act (Clements; Finance)
SB 337: Providing for additional recruitment and retention opportunities of Natural Resources Police Officers (Stover; Pensions then Finance)
SB 338: Permitting Legislature to file suit in limited circumstances against Executive branch to faithfully execute laws passed (Tarr; Judiciary)
SB 339: Increasing penalties for operating house of prostitution (Rucker; Judiciary)
SB 340: Preventing public water and sewer utilities from prohibiting customer from constructing, installing, or maintaining connection to public utility (Martin; Judiciary)
SB 341: Providing bonuses to school personnel for unused personal days (Grady; Education then Finance)
SB 342: Improving patient safety in medical cannabis program (FN) (Takubo; Health and Human Resources)
SB 343: Medical examination transportation services for students who seek support after experiencing sexual violence (Woelfel; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 344: Relating to registration as service worker for the Bureau for Children and Families of the Department of Health and Human Resources (Woelfel; Health and Human Resources)
SB 345: Create homeless education coordinator in counties designated by the state board as an urban county (Woelfel; Education)
SB 346: Including state correctional officers in DNR Police Officer Retirement System (Nelson; Pensions then Finance)
SB 347: Exempting Social Security from personal income tax (Nelson; Finance)
SB 348: Update definition of electioneering communication to be consistent with Federal Election Commission (Nelson; Government Organization)
SB 349: Providing for election reforms (Stuart; Judiciary)
SB 350: Prohibiting discriminatory practices by financial institution or government entity against firearms manufacturers (Martin; Judiciary)
SB 351: Expand the definition of small arms for purposes of taxation (FN) (Tarr; Finance)
SB 352: Modifying Unborn Child Protection Act (Rucker, Azinger, Boley, Chapman, Deeds, Grady, Martin, Maynard, Phillips, Smith, Stover, Stuart, Tarr, Taylor, Woodrum; Health and Human Resources)
SB 353: Allocation of custodial responsibility and decision making responsibility of children (Swope, Phillips; Judiciary)
SB 354: Relating to the West Virginia Advanced Energy and Economic Corridor Authority (Plymale, Jeffries, Maynard, Swope, Woelfel; Economic Development)
SB 355: Relating to spousal privilege (Trump, Weld, Woelfel; Judiciary)
SB 356: Relating generally to voter ballot identification and verification (Boley, Azinger, Barrett, Chapman, Clements, Deeds, Hamilton, Hunt, Jeffries, Maynard, Nelson, Phillips, Queen, Rucker, Smith, Stover, Stuart, Swope; Judiciary)
SB 357: Permitting dental hygienist to perform tobacco cessation education (Takubo; Health and Human Resources)
SB 358: Creating Natural Resources Anti-Commandeering Act (Martin; Judiciary)
SB 359: Declaring sale and manufacture of firearms essential business during declared emergency (Martin; Judiciary)
SB 360: Creating Substance Abuse Intervention Act (Stuart; Judiciary)
SB 361: Promise for Promise Act (FN) (Stuart; Education then Finance)
SB 362: Increasing availability of prescription nonopioid medications (Stuart; Health and Human Resources)
SB 363: Create mobile training team (Taylor; Education then Judiciary)
SB 364: Prohibiting counties from double-taxing rental properties (Chapman; Government Organization)
SB 365: Providing waiver of fees for emergency responders disabled in line of duty for hunting, trapping, and fishing licenses (FN) (Weld; Agriculture and Natural Resources then Finance)
SB 366: Requiring DHHR file petition to terminate parental rights under certain circumstances (FN) (Smith; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 367: Anti-Racism Act of 2024 (FN) (Tarr; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 368: Establishing rebate for registration fees for hybrid vehicles (FN) (Woodrum; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
SB 369: Relating to brewer and resident brewer licenses (FN) (Woodrum; Judiciary)
SB 370: Update Public Employees Grievance Board procedure to reflect that Level 3 decisions be appealed to Intermediate Court of Appeals (Woodrum; Judiciary)
SB 371: Exempting capital gains from personal and corporate taxation (FN) (Nelson; Finance)
SB 372: Create Health Care Sharing Ministries Freedom to Share Act (Nelson; Finance)
SB 373: Providing tax credit to corporations for existing employer-provided child care facilities (FN) (Takubo; Finance)
SB 374: Increasing dental coverage limit for Medicaid enrollees (FN) (Takubo; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 375: Health Care Sharing Ministries Freedom to Share Act (Azinger; Banking and Insurance then Finance)’
SB 376: Requiring law-enforcement agencies and Child Protective Services report certain allegations to county school personnel (Azinger; Education then Judiciary)
SB 377: Exempting physicians from specified traffic laws when responding to emergencies (Takubo; Transportation and Infrastructure)
SB 378: Prohibiting smoking in vehicle when minor 16 or under is present (Takubo; Health and Human Resources)
SB 379: Relating to Sexual Assault Examination Network (Karnes; Health and Human Resources)
SB 380: Relating to mandatory state inspections of motor vehicles (Karnes; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
SB 381: Authorizing WV Secondary School Activities Commission to promulgate legislative rules (Taylor; Education)
SB 382: Motion Picture Open Captioning Act (Caputo; Economic Development then Judiciary)
SB 383: Increasing required insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorders (Caputo; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 384: Persons eligible to vote absentee ballots (Caputo; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 385: Establishing program to pay monthly allotment to certain veterans (FN) (Caputo; Military then Finance)
SB 386: Legalizing cannabis production, sales, and adult consumption (FN) (Caputo; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 387: Repealing WV Workplace Freedom Act (Caputo; Military then Finance)
SB 388: Reimbursement of training cost of law enforcement employees who leave original jurisdiction (Clements; Government Organization then Finance)
SB 389: Relating to nonferrous metal sales and transportation to secondary recycler (FN) (Smith; Energy, Industry and Mining then Finance)
SB 390: Creating personal income tax credit for nurses in WV (FN) (Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 391: Repeal code requiring firefighters and security guards to be members of the National Guard (Trump; Military)
SB 392: Relating to admissibility of evidence regarding the alleged victim’s prior sexual history (Trump, Weld, Woelfel; Judiciary)
SB 393: Clarity regarding placing limitations on a concealed carry permit (Tarr; Judiciary)
SB 394: Precluding Department of Agriculture from cancellation of certain leases (Tarr; Agriculture and Natural Resources)
SB 395: Valuation of industrial property and natural resources by Tax Commissioner (Tarr; Finance)
SB 396: Allow reimbursement for remote ultrasound procedures and fetal nonstress tests (Rucker; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 397: Exempting high tunnels and greenhouses from personal property taxes (FN) (Hamilton, Caputo, Chapman, Deeds, Martin, Maynard, Plymale, Rucker, Stover, Taylor, Woelfel, Woodrum; Agriculture and Natural Resources then Finance)
SB 398: Establish the crime of sexual extortion (Hamilton, Chapman, Deeds, Maynard, Plymale, Rucker, Stover, Taylor, Woelfel, Woodrum; Judiciary)
SB 399: Relating to assault on a police dog (Weld; Judiciary)
SB 400: Creating limited waiver from certificate of public convenience and necessity requirement for certain water or sewer services projects (Jeffries; Economic Development)
SB 401: Provide optional pop up window to sign up for NRA or USCCA firearms safety classes when purchasing hunting or fishing license online (Trump; Agriculture and Natural Resources)
SB 402: Codify US Concealed Carry Association to provide concealed carry classes in West Virginia (Trump; Government Organization)
SB 403: Relating to gift card fraud (Deeds, Caputo, Hunt, Rucker, Stover, Takubo, Taylor; Judiciary)
SB 404: Teen Social Media and Internet Safety Act (Chapman; Education)
SB 405: Create Jobs for Reentry Program (Chapman; Government Organization then Finance)
SB 406: Relating to food allergen awareness in food service establishments (Chapman; Health and Human Resources)
SB 407: Pharmacist Prescribing Authority Act (Chapman; Health and Human Resources and Government Organization)
SB 408: Permitting retired teachers to substitute full time without the penalty of losing their retirement (Chapman; Pensions)
SB 409: Requiring all public schools to instruct students on foreign languages (Chapman; Education)
SB 410: Requiring every state building to provide private room in which mothers can express milk or nurse their children (Chapman; Government Organization)
SB 411: Relating generally to waiver of initial licensing fees for certain individuals (Woodrum; Judiciary)
SB 412: Amend medical exemptions to state vaccination laws (Takubo; Health and Human Resources)
SB 413: Clarifying department responsible for administration of certain programs (Woodrum)
SB 414: Permitting resident individuals to deduct medical expenses not reimbursed by insurance policy (Banking and Insurance then Finance)
SB 415: Increasing minimum salaries for Bureau for Child Support Enforcement attorneys (FN) (Trump; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 416: Increasing number of members on WV Parole Board (FN) (Trump; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 417: Creating Paid Parental Leave Pilot Program (FN) (Trump; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 418: Authorizing restitution to victims of securities fraud and create fund for that purpose (FN) (Oliverio; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 419: Requiring Commissioner of Highways to develop formula for allocating road funds among districts (FN) (Oliverio; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
SB 420: Providing county commissioners ongoing mechanism to consider compensation increases for elected officials every two years (Woodrum; Government Organization)
SB 421: Renaming Department of Health and Human Resources (IB) (Deeds, Grady, Plymale, Takubo, Woodrum; Health and Human Resources)
SB 422: Providing reports to DMV on mental and physical disabilities for driver’s license (Deeds; Judiciary)
SB 423: Relating to voluntary private school immunization (Roberts; Health and Human Resources)
SB 424: Increasing retirement benefit multiplier of Deputy Sherriff Retirement System Act (FN) (Deeds; Government Organization then Finance)
SB 425: West Virginia Public Waterway Access Act (Woodrum; Agriculture and Natural Resources)
SB 426: West Virginia Recreational Trails Development Act (Woodrum; Outdoor Recreation)
SB 427: Repeal authority of Agriculture Commissioner to increase certain fees by rules or regulations (Woodrum; Agriculture and Natural Resources)
SB 428: Establishing that appeals from administrative rulings are to be filed with the Intermediate Court of Appeals (Woodrum; Government Organization)
SB 429: West Virginia Farm Use Vehicle Tag Placement Act (Woodrum; Transportation and Infrastructure)
SB 430: WV Rental to Own Act (Woodrum; Judiciary)
SB 431: Relating to verification of legal employment status of workers (Woodrum; Judiciary)
SB 432: Clarification of when funds accumulated by boards may be transferred to the General Revenue Fund of the State Treasury (Woodrum; Finance)
SB 433: Removing prohibition against monies in registered professional nurses fund reverting to General Revenue Fund (Woodrum; Finance)
SB 434: Relating to panhandling (Woodrum; Judiciary)
SB 435: Relating to DNA collection from those convicted of crimes (Woodrum; Judiciary)
SB 436: Relating to the prohibition of certain additives in diesel fuel (Woodrum; Transportation and Infrastructure)
SB 437: West Virginia Sexual Assault Survivors’ Child Protection Act (Woodrum; Judiciary)
SB 438: Roster requirements of authorizing entities (Woodrum; Government Organization)
SB 439: Authorizing certain 911 personnel to be members of the Emergency Medical Services Retirement System under certain circumstances (Nelson, Oliverio, Azinger, Barrett, Clements, Grady, Hamilton, Hunt, Phillips, Plymale, Queen; Pensions then Finance)
SB 440: Establishing salaries for Secretaries of Department of Health, Department of Human Services, and Department of Health Facilities (FN) (Blair, Woelfel; Finance) [By Request of the Executive]
SB 441: Regulating Driving in Left Lane on Four-Lane Interstate Highways in WV (Woodrum; Transportation and Infrastructure then Judiciary)
SB 442: Provide for immunity for mental health providers who are involved in mental hygiene checks (Takubo; Judiciary)
SB 443: Creating the Oral Health and Cancer Rights Act (Takubo; Banking and Insurance)
SCR 9: US Merchant Marine Joseph Ward Teter Memorial Bridge (Karnes, Azinger, Barrett, Chapman, Clements, Deeds, Hamilton, Hunt, Jeffries, Martin, Oliverio, Queen, Roberts, Rucker, Smith, Stover, Stuart, Swope)
SCR 10: Urging WV congressional delegation support legislation authorizing county governments to sell FEMA property (Woodrum)
SCR 11: US Marine Corps PFC Noel Harper Fields Memorial Bridge (Grady, Azinger, Barrett, Boley, Caputo, Chapman, Clements, Deeds, Hamilton, Hunt, Jeffries, Karnes, Martin, Maynard, Nelson, Oliverio, Phillips, Plymale, Queen, Roberts, Rucker, Smith, Stover, Stuart, Swope, Takubo, Tarr, Taylor, Weld, Woelfel)
SCR 12: US Army Private Raymond Lee Perkins Memorial Bridge (Swope)
SCR 13: US Navy S1 Paul McCue Bridge (Caputo, Hamilton and Queen)
SCR 14: US Army PFC William Gorman Memorial Bridge (Martin)
SCR 15: Chief Edward ‘Eddie’ Keesecker Memorial Bridge (Blair)

* (FN) indicates the bill has a Fiscal Note

* (IB) indicates the bill is an Interim Bill

Committee times and agendas are subject to change. Follow @WVSenClerk on Twitter for updates.

Contact: Jacque Bland at (304) 357-7999

Member Press Release

Senate Calendar and Committee Schedule for Thursday, January 11, 2024

January 11, 2024
Written by Cheyenne

Thursday, January 11, 2024 – 2nd Day of Session

The Senate will convene at 11 a.m.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

SCR 1: Leon Charles Trader Memorial Bridge
SCR 2: US Army PFC John Henry Trail Memorial Bridge
SCR 3: Charlie Lee Jordan Memorial Bridge
SCR 4: US Army 2LT Eston Kuhn Memorial Road
SCR 5: US Army 1LT Hershel Jarrell Memorial Road
SCR 6: Orland Jackson “Tom” Meikles Memorial Road
SCR 7: Donald “Tiny” Lucas and Ronald Dale Lucas Veterans Memorial Bridge
SR 2: Recognizing dedicated public service of Honorable Donna J. Boley
SR 3: Commemorating 150th anniversary of Keyser

THIRD READING

There are no bills on Third Reading for Thursday, January 11, 2024.

SECOND READING

SB 142: Clarifying deadline to file annual report for companies authorized to do business in WV
SB 143: Creating WV Guardian Program
SB 144: Requiring each county board to ensure that its meetings are open to public through in-person attendance and broadcast live on its website
SB 145: Limiting gubernatorial authority to spend certain federal funds without appropriation of Legislature
SB 146: Creating adult education taskforce
SB 147: Adding definition of “ammunition” for purposes of obtaining state license to carry concealed deadly weapon
SB 148: Establishing auto-renewal program for wildlife licenses
SB 149: Relating to municipalities required to be represented on county authority boards
SB 150: Clarifying when magistrate vacancies shall be filled
SB 151: Clarifying terms and offense of human smuggling
SB 152: Displaying official US motto in public schools
SB 153: Making adoption records accessible for medical purposes
SB 154: Increasing penalties for drug possession and updating list of offenses
SB 155: Creating Violent Crime Prevention Act
SB 156: Requiring certain documents that contain wage records be considered confidential
SB 157: Requiring one-year residency within district or county to fill vacancy in Legislature
SB 158: Enhancing penalties for fleeing officer
SB 159: Prohibiting persons convicted of certain crimes against minors from holding positions on boards of education
SB 160: Updating language and increasing penalties for indecent exposure
SB 161: Creating emeritus physician license
SB 162: Establishing Summer Feeding for All Program
SB 163: Establishing aggravated felony offense of reckless driving resulting in death
SB 164: Relating generally trespassing
SB 165: Creating pilot program for recovery residences in Cabell County
SB 166: Updating contested elections procedures
SB 167: Establishing statewide health and safety fee for tourism and recreational activities by county commissions
SB 168: Granting municipal fire marshal authority to assist law-enforcement officer
SB 169: Allowing physician assistants to own practice
SB 170: Relating to compensable diseases of certain firefighters covered by workers’ compensation
SB 171: Prohibiting county commissions from adopting authorization that exceeds state law regarding agriculture operations
SB 172: Revising requirements of local school improvement councils
SB 173: Modifying certain guidelines for motor vehicle dealers, distributors, wholesalers, and manufacturers
SB 175: Updating offenses of extortion and attempted extortion
SB 176: Relating to permissible expenditures by Water Development Authority from Infrastructure Fund
SB 177: Protecting consumers against automatic renewals without consent
SB 178: Relating to dental health care service plans
SB 179: Requiring sheriff to serve child abuse and neglect petitions
SB 180: Supplementary appropriation to Department of Economic Development

FIRST READING

There are no bills on First Reading for Thursday, January 11, 2024.

Scheduled Committee Meetings

9:30 a.m.: Finance (451M)

Budget Presentation: Governor’s Budget – Michael Cook, State Budget Director

3 p.m.: Finance (451M)

Budget Presentation: Revenue Presentation – Mark Muchow, Deputy Cabinet Secretary, Department of Revenue

** Committee times and agendas are subject to change **

Senate Bills to be Introduced Thursday, January 11, 2024

SB 201: Providing exemption from state severance tax for coal sold to coal-fired power plants located in WV (FN) (Phillips; Energy, Industry, and Mining then Finance)
SB 202: Requiring certain municipalities pay for incarceration of inmates (Hamilton; Government Organization then Finance)
SB 203: Requiring political action committee to disclose contributors’ names and addresses to Secretary of State (Hamilton; Government Organization then Judiciary)
SB 204: Requiring counties to register automated external defibrillators with Office of Emergency Medical Services (Hamilton; Government Organization then Finance)
SB 205: Updating authority of Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources Accountability (IB) (Deeds, Grady, Plymale, Takubo, Woodrum; Health and Human Resources then Government Organization)
SB 206: Establishing 80 miles per hour speed limit on interstate highways (Karnes; Transportation and Infrastructure)
SB 207: Collecting and analyzing statistical information pertaining to terminating pregnancies under Medicaid Program (FN) (Karnes; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 208: Establishing tax credit for certain physicians who locate to practice in WV (FN) (Takubo; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 209: Exempting certain irrevocable trusts from personal income tax (FN) (Weld; Finance)
SB 210: WV Native American Tribes Unique Recognition, Authentication, and Listing Act (Swope; Judiciary)
SB 211: Allowing children and grandchildren of WV landowner to hunt and fish on private land without permit or license (Phillips; Agriculture and Natural Resources)
SB 212: Providing that all coal severance tax shall be provided to county that produced coal (FN) (Phillips; Energy, Industry, and Mining then Finance)
SB 213: Permitting special registration plates for persons with medical conditions that cause erratic behavior (FN) (Phillips; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
SB 214: Fair Access to Financial Services Act (Phillips; Banking and Insurance)
SB 215: Modifying permissible percentage of light transmission for sun screening devices used in automotive safety glazing (Tarr; Transportation and Infrastructure)
SB 216: Extending time that prescription for spectacles remains valid (Woodrum; Government Organization)
SB 217: Authorizing state and subdivisions to negotiate price for construction when all bids received exceed maximum budget (Woodrum; Government Organization)
SB 218: Relating to Military Incentive Program (FN) (Weld; Military then Finance)
SB 219: Relating to Uniform Controlled Substances Act (Weld; Judiciary)
SB 220: Relating to compensable diseases of certain firefighters covered by workers’ compensation (Weld; Judiciary)
SB 221: Creating felony offense of aggravated cruelty to animals (Weld; Judiciary)
SB 222: Exempting WV veterans from certain fees and charges at state parks (Weld; Military)
SB 223: Prohibiting laws requiring person to receive or use medical products (Rucker; Health and Human Resources)
SB 224: Prohibiting certain funding and involvement or attendance of minors to drag shows (Tarr; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 225: Establishing revocation of authority for spending by agency in support of challenge to WV law (Tarr; Finance)
SB 226: Precluding Department of Agriculture from cancellation of certain leases (Tarr; Agriculture and Natural Resources)
SB 227: Prompt Payment Act of 2024 (Tarr; Finance)
SB 228: Requiring medically necessary care and treatment to address congenital anomalies associated with cleft lip and cleft palate (Woodrum; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 229: Relating to proceeds and application of hotel occupancy tax (Smith; Economic Development)
SB 230: Creating WV Coal Marketing Program (FN) (Smith; Energy, Industry, and Mining then Finance)
SB 231: Clarifying wind power projects taxation (Smith; Energy, Industry, and Mining then Finance)
SB 232: Special Road Repair Fund (FN) (Smith; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
SB 233: Relating to nomination and election of congressional candidates (Smith; Judiciary)
SB 234: Prohibiting turkey hunting with rifle (Smith; Agriculture and Natural Resources)
SB 235: Applying penalties for nonpayment of royalties under terms of oil and natural gas leases (Smith; Energy, Industry, and Mining)
SB 236: Requiring coverage of treatment for certain pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders in certain circumstances (Rucker; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 237: Criminalizing engaging in adult cabaret performance where it may be viewed by minor (Azinger; Judiciary)
SB 238: Clarifying amount of deputy sheriff annual salary increase (Woodrum; Government Organization)
SB 239: Clarifying when excess funds accumulated by boards are to be transferred to General Revenue Fund (Woodrum; Finance)
SB 240: Increasing fees charged by sheriff (Woodrum; Government Organization)
SB 241: Making rules and regulations promulgated by PSC subject to legislative rule-making review procedures (Woodrum; Government Organization then Judiciary)
SB 242: Exempting certain persons from hunting, trapping, and fishing license fees (FN) (Woodrum; Agriculture and Natural Resources then Finance)
SB 243: Requiring moment of silence at beginning of each school day (Rucker; Education then Judiciary)
SB 244: Clarifying residency requirements for voter registration (Rucker; Judiciary)
SB 245: Requiring municipal elections to be held on same day as statewide elections (Taylor; Judiciary)
SB 246: Removing rape and incest exception to obtain abortion in WV (Taylor; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
SB 247: Relating to modernization of procedures for voting in public elections (Caputo; Judiciary)
SB 248: Prohibiting legislators and part-time public officials from having interest in public contracts under certain circumstances (Caputo; Government Organization)
SB 249: Increasing transparency in apportionment process for congressional and legislative districts (Caputo; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 250: Requiring medical insurance providers to include infertility services in their policies (Caputo; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
SB 251: Creating Closed Captioning Act (Caputo; Government Organization)
SB 252: Permitting Commissioner of DOH to make money transfers within State Road Fund (Clements; Finance)
SB 253: Establishing minimum student enrollment for school aid formula (FN) (Clements; Education then Finance)
SB 254: Allowing Tier II Teachers Retirement System members to apply accrued annual and sick leave toward an increase in retirement benefits (FN) (Grady; Pensions then Finance)
SB 255: Prohibiting parking fee for accessible parking space bearing international symbol of access (FN) (Martin; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
SB 256: Providing protection for property owner when someone visiting private cemetery causes damage to property (Grady; Judiciary)
SB 257: Prohibiting mandates for vaccines (Taylor; Health and Human Resources)
SB 258: Increasing tax credit for employers providing child care for employees (FN) (Takubo; Finance)
SB 259: Requiring Higher Education Policy Commission to create and administer PROMISE Plus Program (FN) (Takubo; Education then Finance)
SB 260: Approving overtime pay for teachers (Taylor; Education then Finance)
SB 261: WV Veterans’ Home Loan Mortgage Program of 2024 (Weld; Military then Finance)
SB 262: Clarifying procedure for administrative dissolution of corporations by Secretary of State (Woodrum; Government Organization)
SB 263: Expanding candidates eligibility for judicial retirement (FN) (Woodrum; Pensions then Finance)
SB 264: Reducing rates for legal advertising (Woodrum; Government Organization)
SB 265: Increasing value at which municipal property must be sold through public auction (Woodrum; Government Organization)
SB 266: Increasing Homestead Property Tax Exemption for homeowners (FN) (Oliverio; Finance)
SB 267: Adding grievance and appellate procedures for individuals participating in DMV safety and treatment program (Rucker; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 268: Transferring Division of Personnel duties to individual agencies (FN) (Trump; Government Organization then Finance)
SB 269: Excluding test strips from definition of drug paraphernalia (IB) (Deeds, Grady, Takubo; Judiciary)
SB 270: Establishing road or highway infrastructure improvement projects or coal production and processing facilities tax credit (FN) (Phillips; Economic Development then Finance)
SB 271: Increasing limit on value of agricultural products under Farm-To-Food Bank Tax Credit (FN) (Agriculture and Natural Resources then Finance)
SB 272: Allowing parents to decline required medication administered to newborns (Karnes; Health and Human Resources)
SB 273: Prohibiting certain divisive acts or concepts from schools, state agencies and any groups receiving state funding (FN) (Karnes; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 274: Authorizing public retirement system participants to receive cash value of retirement benefits in lieu of regular payments (FN) (Karnes; Pensions then Finance)
SB 275: Relating to financial institutions engaged in boycotts of firearms companies (FN) (Karnes; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 276: Establishing criminal offense for being under influence of controlled substance unless specifically prescribed (Hamilton; Judiciary)
SB 277: Requiring notice be sent to owners of record before real property can be sold due to nonpayment of taxes (Rucker; Government Organization)
SB 278: WV Chemical Abortion Prohibition Act (Rucker; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
SB 279: Requiring medical professionals to report injuries and side effects from vaccines to Bureau for Public Health (Rucker; Health and Human Resources)
SB 280: Allowing teachers in public schools to teach intelligent design (Grady; Education)
SB 281: Assessing wildlife impact fee on wind power projects (FN) (Smith; Agriculture and Natural Resources then Finance)
SB 282: Relating to funding for volunteer fire departments and emergency medical services units (FN) (Smith; Government Organization then Finance)
SB 283: Relating to use of force, including deadly force, in defense of self, real, and personal property (Smith; Judiciary)
SB 284: Fetal Heartbeat Act (Smith; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
SB 285: Allowing county commissions to impose amusement tax (FN) (Smith; Government Organization then Finance)
SB 286: Relating to time limitation for filing occupational pneumoconiosis claims (FN) (Smith; Banking and Insurance then Finance)
SB 287: Requiring certain probationers to participate in work release program and spend six months in work release center (Smith; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 288: Allocating proceeds of sales tax from sale of parts, tires, repair and maintenance services for motor vehicles to State Road Fund (FN) (Smith; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
SB 289: Exempting Social Security payments from state income tax (FN) (Chapman; Finance)
SB 290: Establishing three-year nontraditional school week pilot project (Grady; Education)
SB 291: WV Volunteer State Defense Guard Act (Chapman; Military then Finance)
SB 292: Hunger-Free Campus Act (Grady; Education then Finance)
SB 293: Creating the Glucagon for Schools Act (Rucker; Health and Human Resources)
SB 294: Relating to increase of tax rate on certain eligible acute care hospitals (Takubo; Finance)
SB 295: Making opioid treatment programs unlawful (Tarr; Health and Human Resources)
SB 296: Making syringe exchange services programs unlawful (Tarr; Health and Human Resources)
SB 297: Providing that continuing education credits shall be valid for three years (Woodrum; Government Organization)
SB 298: Providing tax credit to certain disabled veterans for lifetime hunting, trapping, and fishing license (Smith; Military then Finance)
SB 299: WV Public Employees Retirement Act (FN) (Caputo; Pensions then Finance)
SB 300: Relating to the organization of the Office of the Inspector General (IB) (Deeds, Grady, Plymale, Takubo, Woodrum; Health and Human Resources)
SCR 8: US Army Corporal Clemon Knapp Memorial Bridge (Deeds)

* (FN) indicates the bill has a Fiscal Note

* (IB) indicates the bill is an Interim Bill

Committee Action on Bills from Wednesday, January 10, 2024

3 p.m.: Judiciary

Com. Sub. for SB 2: DEP Rules Bundle (Includes SB 2, DEP rule relating to alternative emission limitations during startup and shutdown operations; SB 3, DEP rule relating to control of particulate matter air pollution from combustion of fuel in indirect heat exchangers; SB 4, DEP rule relating to control of air pollution from operation of hot mix asphalt plants; SB 5, DEP rule relating to control of air pollution from operation of coal preparation plants, coal handling operations, and coal refuse disposal areas; SB 6, DEP rule relating to control of air pollution from combustion of refuse; SB 7, DEP rule relating to control of particulate matter air pollution from manufacturing processes and associated operations; SB 8, DEP rule relating to ambient air quality standards; SB 9, DEP rule relating to control of air pollution from emission of sulfur oxides; SB 10, DEP rule relating to standards of performance for new stationary sources; SB 11, DEP rule relating to control of air pollution from emission of volatile organic compounds; SB 12, DEP rule relating to emission standards for hazardous air pollutants; SB 13, DEP rule relating to control of greenhouse gas emissions from existing coal-fired electric utility generating units; SB 14, DEP rule relating to administration of Drinking Water Treatment Revolving Fund and safe drinking water set-asides; SB 15, DEP rule relating to hazardous waste management system; SB 16, DEP rule relating to underground injection control)
Committee substitute reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

Committee times and agendas are subject to change. Follow @WVSenClerk on Twitter for updates.

Contact: Jacque Bland at (304) 357-7999

Member Press Release

Senate Calendar and Committee Schedule for Wednesday, January 10, 2024

January 10, 2024
Written by Cheyenne

Wednesday, January 10, 2024 – 1st Day of Session

The Senate will convene at noon.

The State of the State address begins at 7 p.m. in the House Chamber. The Senate will reassemble 15 minutes prior to the State of the State to proceed to the House Chamber.

Scheduled Committee Meetings

2 p.m.: Outdoor Recreation (208W)

Presentation: Erik Hubbard, Executive Director, Backroads of Appalachia
Presentation: Dr. Brian Holmes, Member, Recreational Trails Program

3 p.m.: Judiciary (208W)

Com. Sub. for SB 2: DEP Rules Bundle
Includes SB 2, DEP rule relating to alternative emission limitations during startup and shutdown operations; SB 3, DEP rule relating to control of particulate matter air pollution from combustion of fuel in indirect heat exchangers; SB 4, DEP rule relating to control of air pollution from operation of hot mix asphalt plants; SB 5, DEP rule relating to control of air pollution from operation of coal preparation plants, coal handling operations, and coal refuse disposal areas; SB 6, DEP rule relating to control of air pollution from combustion of refuse; SB 7, DEP rule relating to control of particulate matter air pollution from manufacturing processes and associated operations; SB 8, DEP rule relating to ambient air quality standards; SB 9, DEP rule relating to control of air pollution from emission of sulfur oxides; SB 10, DEP rule relating to standards of performance for new stationary sources; SB 11, DEP rule relating to control of air pollution from emission of volatile organic compounds; SB 12, DEP rule relating to emission standards for hazardous air pollutants; SB 13, DEP rule relating to control of greenhouse gas emissions from existing coal-fired electric utility generating units; SB 14, DEP rule relating to administration of Drinking Water Treatment Revolving Fund and safe drinking water set-asides; SB 15, DEP rule relating to hazardous waste management system; SB 16, DEP rule relating to underground injection control

** Committee times and agendas are subject to change **

Senate Bills to be Introduced Wednesday, January 10, 2024

A full list of Senate bills to be introduced Wednesday, January 10, 2024, will be available on the West Virginia Legislature’s website upon introduction. You can find the list under https://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bulletin_Board/bulletin_board_menu.cfm.

* (FN) indicates the bill has a Fiscal Note

* (IB) indicates the bill is an Interim Bill

Committee times and agendas are subject to change. Follow @WVSenClerk on Twitter for updates.

Contact: Jacque Bland at (304) 357-7999

Member Press Release

Senate Calendar and Committee Schedule for Thursday, February 8, 2024

January 7, 2024
Written by Cheyenne

Thursday, February 8, 2024 – 30th Day of Session

The Senate will convene at 11 a.m.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

SR 29: Designating February 8, 2024, as Tucker County Day
SR 30: Designating February 8, 2024, as WV Hospital Day
SR 31: Designating February 8, 2024, as WV American Academy of Pediatrics Child Health Advocacy Day

THIRD READING

There are no bills on Third Reading for Thursday, February 8, 2024.

SECOND READING

Com. Sub. for Com. Sub. for SB 441: Restricting driving in left lane of multi-lane highways in WV
SB 546: Updating STEM scholarship program
Com. Sub. for SB 548: Clarifying appellate jurisdiction of Intermediate Court of Appeals
Com. Sub. for SB 595: Amending embalmer licensing requirements
Com. Sub. for SB 596: Relating to administration of WV Water Pollution Control Act and Underground Carbon Dioxide Sequestration and Storage
SB 600: Revising criteria for receiving reenlistment or retention bonus
Eng. Com. Sub. for HB 5045: Related to the administration of the West Virginia Water Pollution Control Act, and Underground Carbon Dioxide Sequestration and Storage

FIRST READING

SB 351: Expanding the definition of “small arms” for purposes of taxation
SB 378: Prohibiting smoking in vehicle when minor 16 or under is present
Com. Sub. for SB 542: Amending procedure for filling vacancies in certain county offices having more than three commissioners
Com. Sub. for SB 587: Enabling State Fire Commission to propose legislative rules
Com. Sub. for SB 590: Political Subdivision Labor Regulatory Limitation Act
Com. Sub. for SB 614: Relating to elementary behavior intervention and safety
Com. Sub. for SB 616: Modifying definition of “family or household members” as it relates to domestic violence laws

Scheduled Committee Meetings

10 a.m.: Government Organization (208W)

SB 530: Removing requirement for counties to draft and adopt zoning ordinances
SB 551: Modifying requirements related to levy of service fees
Com. Sub. for SB 629: Requiring builders to follow State Building Code when local inspection and enforcement not provided
HB 4976: Providing the contact information of the Inspector General on the agencies and boards websites of the executive departments

10 a.m.: Education (451M)

Presentation: Minecraft in Education by Microsoft
SB 568: Creating multi-tiered system for school absenteeism

10:45 a.m.: Rules (219M)

1 p.m.: Energy, Industry and Mining (208W)

Presentation: Paul Espenan, Senior Vice President, Environmental Health and Safety, DEP – Presentation on Diversified Energy

1 p.m.: Health and Human Resources (451M)

Agenda TBA

3 p.m.: Judiciary (208W)

SB 370: Updating Public Employees Grievance Board procedure that certain decisions be appealed to Intermediate Court of Appeals
Com. Sub. for SB 581: Requiring correctional facilities to provide free feminine hygiene products
Com. Sub. for SB 632: Relating to Dangerousness Assessment Advisory Board multi-disciplinary study group
Com. Sub. for SB 716: Relating to child support
SB 679: Regulating certain plant-based derivatives, hemp-derived cannabinoid products, and Kratom

3 p.m.: Finance (451M)

SB 620: Establishing WV Mothers and Babies Pregnancy Support Program
SB 628: Declaring certain claims as moral obligations of the State
Com. Sub. for HB 5157: Relating to contingent increase of tax rate on certain eligible acute care hospitals

** Committee times and agendas are subject to change **

Senate Bills to be Introduced Thursday, February 8, 2024

Committee Action on Bills from Wednesday, February 7, 2024

10 a.m.: Agriculture and Natural Resources

SB 617: Exempting certain meat processes from consumers sales and service tax
Bill, as amended, reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

1 p.m.: Economic Development

SB 669: Relating to county economic opportunity development districts
Bill, as amended, reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass; second reference to Finance

SB 564: Modifying tax credits for certain apprenticeship training
Bill reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass; second reference to Finance

2 p.m.: Pensions

SB 605: Requiring electronic funds transfer of retirement contributions by participating employers
Bill reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

SB 606: Relating to Natural Resources Police Officers Retirement System
Bill reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass; second reference to Finance

SB 607: Clarifying Municipal Police Officers and Firefighters Retirement System surviving spouse benefits
Bill reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass; second reference to Finance

SB 608: Emergency Medical Services Retirement System Act
Bill reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass; second reference to Finance

SB 609: Deputy Sheriff Retirement System Act
Bill reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass; second reference to Finance

3 p.m.: Judiciary

Com. Sub. for SB 578: Clarifying definition of burglary offense
Committee substitute reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

Com. Sub. for SB 577: Limiting landowner liability when land is used for recreational purposes
Committee substitute, as amended, reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

3 p.m.: Finance

SB 658: Supplementing and amending appropriations to Department of Administration, Public Defender Services
Bill reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

Bills that Have Passed the Senate as of Wednesday, February 7, 2024 (94 – 88 Senate; 6 House)

SB 2: Authorizing DEP to promulgate rules (House Judiciary)
SB 17: Department of Health rule relating to public water systems operators (House Health and Human Resources)
SB 31: Department of Human Services rule relating to collection and exchange of data related to overdoses (Completed legislation; awaiting action by the Governor)
SB 36: Authorizing Department of Homeland Security to promulgate legislative rules (House Judiciary)
SB 50: Authorizing Department of Revenue to promulgate legislative rules (Pending House introduction)
SB 60: Authorizing DOT to promulgate legislative rules (House Judiciary)
SB 142: Clarifying deadline to file annual report for companies authorized to do business in WV (House Government Organization)
SB 143: Creating WV Guardian Program (House Education)
SB 144: Requiring each county board to ensure that its meetings are open to public through in-person attendance and broadcast live on its website (House Judiciary)
SB 146: Creating adult education taskforce (House Education)
SB 147: Adding definition of “ammunition” for purposes of obtaining state license to carry concealed deadly weapon (House Judiciary)
SB 148: Establishing auto-renewal program for wildlife licenses (House Government Organization)
SB 149: Relating to municipalities required to be represented on county authority boards (House Political Subdivisions)
SB 150: Clarifying when magistrate vacancies shall be filled (House Judiciary)
SB 151: Clarifying terms and offense of human smuggling (House Judiciary)
SB 152: Displaying official US motto in public schools (House Education)
SB 154: Increasing penalties for drug possession and updating list of offenses (House Judiciary)
SB 155: Creating Violent Crime Prevention Act (House Judiciary)
SB 156: Requiring certain documents that contain wage records be considered confidential (House Government Organization)
SB 157: Requiring one-year residency within district or county to fill vacancy in Legislature (House Judiciary)
SB 158: Enhancing penalties for fleeing officer (House Judiciary)
SB 159: Prohibiting persons convicted of certain crimes against minors from holding positions on boards of education (House Judiciary)
SB 160: Updating language and increasing penalties for indecent exposure (House Judiciary)
SB 162: Establishing Summer Feeding for All Program (House Education)
SB 163: Establishing aggravated felony offense of reckless driving resulting in death (House Judiciary)
SB 164: Relating generally to trespassing (House Judiciary)
SB 165: Creating pilot program for recovery residences in Cabell County (House Judiciary)
SB 166: Updating contested elections procedures (House Judiciary)
SB 168: Granting municipal fire marshal authority to assist law-enforcement officer (House Political Subdivisions)
SB 169: Allowing physician assistants to own practice (House Health and Human Resources)
SB 170: Relating to compensable diseases of certain firefighters covered by workers’ compensation (House Fire Departments and Emergency Medical Services)
SB 171: Prohibiting county commissions from adopting authorization that exceeds state law regarding agriculture operations (House Government Organization)
SB 172: Revising requirements of local school improvement councils (House Education)
SB 173: Modifying certain guidelines for motor vehicle dealers, distributors, wholesalers, and manufacturers (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SB 175: Updating offenses of extortion and attempted extortion (House Judiciary)
SB 176: Relating to permissible expenditures by Water Development Authority from Infrastructure Fund (House Finance)
SB 177: Protecting consumers against automatic renewals without consent (House Judiciary)
SB 178: Relating to dental health care service plans (House Banking and Insurance)
SB 179: Requiring sheriff to serve child abuse and neglect petitions (House Judiciary)
SB 189: Providing for substantial deference to state school superintendent’s interpretations of school laws (House Education)
SB 196: WV Rail Trails Program (House Government Organization)
SB 217: Authorizing state and subdivisions to negotiate price for construction when all bids received exceed maximum budget (House Government Organization)
SB 219: Relating to Uniform Controlled Substances Act (House Judiciary)
SB 222: Exempting WV veterans from certain fees and charges at state parks (House Agriculture and Natural Resources)
SB 240: Increasing fees charged by sheriff (House Government Organization)
SB 261: WV Veterans’ Home Loan Mortgage Program of 2024 (House Finance)
SB 262: Clarifying procedure for administrative dissolution of corporations by Secretary of State (House Government Organization)
SB 265: Increasing value at which municipal property must be sold through public auction (House Government Organization)
SB 269: Excluding test strips from definition of drug paraphernalia (Signed, 02-02)
SB 280: Allowing teachers in public schools to discuss scientific theories (House Education)
SB 293: Creating the Glucagon for Schools Act (House Health and Human Resources)
SB 300: Relating to organization of Office of Inspector General (Senate amended House amendments and passed; pending House concurrence)
SB 318: Modifying process of when parental rights are terminated (H Second Reading, 02-08)
SB 320: Removing requirement for wineries to serve food when serving wine (House Government Organization)
SB 325: Relating to distribution of drugs to safety net providers and contract pharmacies (Pending House introduction)
SB 331: Eliminating cap on maximum amount of money in county’s financial stabilization fund (House Political Subdivisions)
SB 354: Relating to the WV Advanced Energy and Economic Corridor Authority (H First Reading, 02-08)
SB 357: Permitting dental hygienist to perform tobacco cessation education (House Health and Human Resources)
SB 399: Creating crime of assault on a police dog (House Judiciary)
SB 400: Creating limited waiver from certificate of public convenience and necessity requirement for certain water or sewer services projects (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SB 402: Authorizing US Concealed Carry Association to provide concealed carry classes in WV (House Judiciary)
SB 426: WV Recreational Trails Development Act (House Government Organization)
SB 428: Establishing appeals from administrative rulings are to be filed with Intermediate Court of Appeals (H Second Reading, 02-08)
SB 429: WV Farm Use Vehicle Tag Placement Act (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SB 430: WV Rent-to-Own Act (House Government Organization)
SB 436: Prohibiting intentional motor vehicle emissions that create hazards (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SB 438: Modifying roster requirements of authorizing entities (House Government Organization)
SB 439: Authorizing certain 911 personnel to be members of Emergency Medical Services Retirement System under certain circumstances (House Pensions and Retirement)
SB 445: Reducing certification periods and renewal fees for EMS personnel (House Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services)
SB 451: Directing Prosecuting Attorneys Institute to make training available to certain new prosecuting attorneys (House Judiciary)
SB 461: Relating to county economic opportunity development districts (House Economic Development and Tourism)
SB 462: Updating definitions of certain terms used in Personal Income Tax Act (Signed, 02-07)
SB 466: Requiring State Board of Education develop Safety While Accessing Technology education program (House Education)
SB 474: Creating critical incident review team (House Judiciary)
SB 475: Relating to recovery residences (House Health and Human Resources)
SB 477: Prohibiting public disclosure of personal information on internet (House Judiciary)
SB 483: Amending Corporation Net Income Tax Act (Signed, 02-07)
SB 487: Requiring periodic review of professional development for teachers and education staff (House Education)
SB 504: Relating to felony offense of sexual intercourse, intrusion, or contact with student (House Judiciary)
SB 507: Relating to repeal of WV EDGE (Pending House introduction)
SB 516: Determining venue for custodial allocation actions independent of divorce (House Judiciary)
SB 529: Including Salem University in PROMISE Scholarship program (Pending House introduction)
SB 539: Creating cold case database (House Judiciary)
SB 540: Updating WV coordinate systems (Pending House introduction)
SB 543: Relating to research and economic development agreements for state institutions of higher education (H Second Reading, 02-08)
SB 547: Authorizing legislative rules for Higher Education Policy Commission (Pending House introduction)
SB 557: Relating to compensation for firefighters required to work holidays (Pending House introduction)
SB 571: Creating WV Corridor H Advanced Energy and Economic Corridor Authority (House Economic Development and Tourism)
HB 4026: Authorizing the Department of Administration to promulgate a legislative rule relating to state owned vehicles (Completed legislation; awaiting action by the Governor)
HB 4274: Renaming the Department of Health and Human Resources (Signed, 01-26)
HB 4252: Uniform Recognition and Enforcement of Canadian Domestic Violence Protective Orders Act (Signed, 02-07)
HB 4594: Relating to extending managed care (Passed Senate; pending House concurrence to Senate amendment)
HB 4801: Relating generally to the banking authority of the State Treasurer’s Office (Passed Senate; pending House concurrence to Senate amendment)
HB 5332: Excepting persons previously commissioned as a notary public from requirement to have a high school diploma or its equivalent in order to be recommissioned as a notary public (Signed, 02-07)

Resolutions that Have Been Adopted by the Senate as of Wednesday, February 7, 2024 (16)

SCR 1: US Army PFC Leon Charles Trader Memorial Bridge (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SCR 2: US Army PFC John Henry Trail Memorial Bridge (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SCR 5: US Army 1LT Herschel Jarrell Memorial Road (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SCR 6: US Army SSG Orland Jackson “Tom” Meikles Memorial Road (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SCR 8: US Army Corporal Clemon Knapp Memorial Bridge (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SCR 12: US Army Private Raymond Lee Perkins Memorial Bridge (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SCR 15: Chief Edward “Eddie” Keesecker Memorial Bridge (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SCR 10: Urging WV congressional delegation support legislation authorizing county governments to sell FEMA property (House Government Organization)
SCR 11: US Marine Corps PFC Noel Harper Fields Memorial Bridge (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SCR 14: US Army PFC William Gorman Memorial Bridge (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SCR 16: Urging US Congress enact reforms to federal permitting policies to accelerate deployment of new energy infrastructure (Adopted, 01-24)
SCR 17: Reaffirming support of WV Legislature for State of Israel and Jewish people (Adopted, 01-24)
SCR 18: Stanley W. and Evelyn C. See Memorial Bridge (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SCR 19: US Army PFC Henry W. Baldwin Memorial Bridge (House Technology and Infrastructure)
SCR 20: Proclaiming fourth Saturday of November to be annually designated as Ukrainian Holodomor-Genocide Remembrance Day (House Rules)
SCR 24: Recognizing First Responders Honor Board’s nominees for Medal of Valor (Adopted, 02-06)

Bills that Have Completed Legislation as of Wednesday, February 7, 2024 (8 – 4 Senate; 4 House)

SB 31: Department of Human Services rule relating to collection and exchange of data related to overdoses (Completed legislation; awaiting action by the Governor)
SB 269: Excluding test strips from definition of drug paraphernalia (Signed, 02-02)
SB 462: Updating definitions of certain terms used in Personal Income Tax Act (Signed, 02-07)
SB 483: Amending Corporation Net Income Tax Act (Signed, 02-07)
HB 4026: Authorizing the Department of Administration to promulgate a legislative rule relating to state owned vehicles (Completed legislation; awaiting action by the Governor)
HB 4252: Uniform Recognition and Enforcement of Canadian Domestic Violence Protective Orders Act (Signed, 02-07)
HB 4274: Renaming the Department of Health and Human Resources (Signed, 01-26)
HB 5332: Excepting persons previously commissioned as a notary public from requirement to have a high school diploma or its equivalent in order to be recommissioned as a notary public (Signed, 02-07)

Resolutions that Have Completed Legislation as of Wednesday, February 7, 2024 (5 – 3 Senate; 2 House)

HCR 1: Raising a Joint Assembly to hear remarks of the Governor (Adopted, 01-10)
HCR 13: Commemorating the life of Marilyn Kay Parsons (Adopted, 01-11)
SCR 16: Urging US Congress enact reforms to federal permitting policies to accelerate deployment of new energy infrastructure (Adopted, 01-24)
SCR 17: Reaffirming support of WV Legislature for State of Israel and Jewish people (Adopted, 01-24)
SCR 24: Recognizing First Responders Honor Board’s nominees for Medal of Valor (Adopted, 02-06)

Bills Signed by the Governor as of Wednesday, February 7, 2024 (6 – 3 Senate; 3 House)

SB 269: Excluding test strips from definition of drug paraphernalia (Signed, 02-02)

SB 462: Updating definitions of certain terms used in Personal Income Tax Act (Signed, 02-07)
SB 483: Amending Corporation Net Income Tax Act (Signed, 02-07)
HB 4252: Uniform Recognition and Enforcement of Canadian Domestic Violence Protective Orders Act (Signed, 02-07)
HB 4274: Renaming the Department of Health and Human Resources (Signed, 01-26)
HB 5332: Excepting persons previously commissioned as a notary public from requirement to have a high school diploma or its equivalent in order to be recommissioned as a notary public (Signed, 02-07)

Committee times and agendas are subject to change. Follow @WVSenClerk on Twitter for updates.

Contact: Jacque Bland at (304) 357-7999

Member Press Release

House Unveils Extensive Chamber Renovation

January 5, 2024
Written by Cheyenne

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia House of Delegates is completely renovated for only the second time since the Capitol was dedicated in 1932, bringing fresh color and polish to original fixtures, marrying them with brand-new technology and accents, but more importantly eliminating the fire hazards of the previous electrical system. These updates and upgrades, many performed by the same vendors who did the first renovation project in 1995, were completed at a total cost of about $2.36 million.

The carpet is new, adding a navy-blue studded gold starburst pattern to the familiar shade of red. The 100 member desks are the same black walnut desks, more than 90 years old, each with a fresh sand and stain. Their dings and scratches all varied, but nearly every desk was heavily pocked with marks left by a continual banging of the wooden armrests on distinguished, but oversized, red leather chairs with nail head trim that never quite fit underneath. The new, smaller chairs selected from among five options by a majority of House members who were present during the August 2023 extraordinary session, are a deep shade of blue similar to the carpet accents. Each chair option was presented after careful measurement to allow more comfortable movement throughout the Chamber aisles. Tall chairs at the front of the Chamber received reupholstery work. A full duct cleaning has been set off by new brass vent covers accented by a small outline of the state of West Virginia in the center, adding a point of pride to an often-unnoticed utilitarian piece. Any damaged pieces of rock crystal discovered among the 10,000 that make up the chandelier are being replaced.

The previous electrical system which had been shorting out, leaving the voting system unstable, has been upgraded. Microphones and microphone reels were replaced at each of the 100 members’ desks, and upgrades to the sound system better integrate technology that had been piecemeal added and always adjusted throughout the years. Additional high-speed internet cable connections and updated connections were added to the House Clerk’s desk and member desks. Nearly 90 miles of cable were installed throughout the entire Chamber as part of this project. The burgundy corner curtains were removed following extensive sound testing, revealing even more white polished marble. Additional acoustic panels were added to the galleries in addition to replacing the old and worn panels throughout the Chamber.

The 1995 House renovation project improved the two press tables situated in the front of the Chamber with “modesty panels” and telephone installation. The most recent renovation removed the need for media with floor privileges who use the tables to climb under them for electrical outlets. Panels with USB and electrical outlets that rise and recede from the tops of the tables have been installed, and additional outlets with hookups have been added to the rear corner of the Chamber where television cameras can plug into the House audio feed for clear recording.

The 1995 renovation required scaffolding to fill every inch of the Chamber as walls were repaired and repainted. That process was repeated this fall by the same vendor, but this time three new House members took the oath of office amid construction. When former House Speaker Chuck Chambers announced the previous restoration project, he told the public it was “being done to ensure the preservation of the magnificent and historic building of the people of West Virginia,” and current House Speaker Roger Hanshaw, R-Clay, has said this renovation will again serve the same purpose.

“I often talk about how everything we do in this building has the potential to affect all 1.8 million West Virginians, and I hope all West Virginians are able to take the time to come visit the people’s building and feel the pride I’m honored to experience every day when I come here to work,” Hanshaw said. “We have the most beautiful state capitol in the entire United States, and with this project we’ve been able keep our House Chamber looking its best while also improving safety, accessibility and modern-day functions.”

(high-resolution photos available here: https://westvirginialegislature.zenfolio.com/f847330676) (time-lapse video available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNhx2I2iRYY)

Contact: Ann Ali at (304) 340-3323

Member Press Release

Senate Calendar and Committee Schedule for Wednesday, January 17, 2024

January 1, 2024
Written by Cheyenne

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 – 8th Day of Session

The Senate will convene at 11 a.m.

THIRD READING

There are no bills on Third Reading for Wednesday, January 17, 2024.

SECOND READING

There are no bills on Second Reading for Wednesday, January 17, 2024.

FIRST READING

Com. Sub. for SB 60: Authorizing DOT to promulgate legislative rules
SB 219: Relating to Uniform Controlled Substances Act

Scheduled Committee Meetings

10 a.m.: Agriculture and Natural Resources (208W)

West Virginia Department of Natural Resources Presentations: Waterfowl Season Framework of West Virginia and Preliminary West Virginia 2023 Big Game Harvest Figures

Brett McMillion, Director, WV DNR
Wendy Greene, Deputy, WV DNR
Colin Carpenter, Biologist

1 p.m.: School Choice (208W)

Presentation: David Price, West Virginia Secondary Schools Athletic Commission
Presentation: James Paul, West Virginia Professional Charter School Board

1 p.m.: Economic Development (451M)

SB 354: Relating to the WV Advanced Energy and Economic Corridor Authority
SB 400: Creating limited waiver from certificate of public convenience and necessity requirement for certain water or sewer services projects

2 p.m.: Outdoor Recreation (208W)

Com. Sub. for SB 196: WV Rail Trails Program
SB 426: WV Recreational Trails Development Act

2 p.m.: Pensions (451M)

SB 439: Authorizing certain 911 personnel to be members of Emergency Medical Services Retirement System under certain circumstances
Presentation: Jeffrey Fleck, Executive Director CPRB – Annual Update on CPRB 2023 Plan Statistics

3 p.m.: Judiciary (208W)

Com. Sub. for SB 399: Creating crime of assault on a police dog
Com. Sub. for SB 267: Adding grievance and appellate procedures for individuals participating in DMV safety and treatment program
Com. Sub. for SB 335: Modifying witness fee and mileage rate paid by state to match federal court system
Com. Sub. for SB 50: Revenue Bundle
Includes SB 50, Insurance Commissioner rule relating to AIDS regulations; SB 51, Insurance Commissioner rule relating to health benefit plan network access and adequacy; SB 52, Insurance Commissioner rule relating to bail bondsmen in criminal cases; SB 53, Racing Commission rule relating to thoroughbred racing; SB 54, Tax Department rule relating to aircraft operated under fractional ownership program; SB 55, Tax Department rule relating to citizen tax credit for property taxes paid; SB 56, Tax Department rule relating to income tax paid at entity level by electing pass-through entities; SB 57, Tax Department rule relating to income tax credits for property taxes paid; SB 58, Tax Department rule relating to administration of tax on purchases of wine and liquor inside and outside of municipalities; SB 59, Tax Department rule relating to privilege tax on sales of hemp-derived cannabinoid and kratom products

3 p.m.: Finance (451M)

SB 483: Amending Corporate Net Income Tax Act
Budget Presentation: West Virginia Public Service Commission
Budget Presentation: Consumer Advocate Division
Budget Presentation: West Virginia Lottery Commission

** Committee times and agendas are subject to change **

Senate Bills to be Introduced Wednesday, January 17, 2024

SB 473: Allowing death penalty for intentionally killing law-enforcement officer or first responder in line of duty (Stuart, Azinger, Hunt, Phillips, Tarr, Taylor, Woodrum; Judiciary)
SB 474: Creating critical incident review team (Woelfel; Health and Human Resources)
SB 475: Relating to recovery residences (Tarr; Health and Human Resources)
SB 476: Establishing pop-up window that directs users to optional firearms safety classes offered by NRA and USCCA (Stover, Azinger, Barrett, Boley, Chapman, Clements, Deeds, Grady, Hamilton, Hunt, Jeffries, Karnes, Maroney, Martin, Maynard, Oliverio, Queen, Roberts, Rucker, Stuart, Swope, Takubo, Trump, Weld, Woodrum; Agriculture and Natural Resources)
SB 477: Prohibiting public disclosure of personal information on internet (Maroney, Takubo; Judiciary)
SB 478: Establishing Energy Intensive Industrial or Manufacturing Consumer Tax Credit (FN) (Jeffries; Energy, Industry, and Mining then Finance)
SB 479: Eliminating suspension of driver’s license for failure to pay court fines and costs (FN) (Jeffries; Judiciary then Finance)
SB 480: Clarifying statewide deadline for electronically submitted voter registration applications (Jeffries; Government Organization)
SB 481: Relating to regulation of pawnbrokers (Jeffries; Judiciary)
SB 482: Relating generally to lobbying rules (Woodrum; Government Organization then Judiciary)
SB 483: Amending Corporation Net Income Tax Act (Blair, Woelfel; Finance) [By Request of the Executive]
SB 484: Extending in-state tuition rates to all members, veterans and spouses of National Guard, Reserves and armed forces (Blair, Woelfel; Finance) [By Request of the Executive]
SB 485: Increasing annual salaries of certain state employees (Blair, Woelfel; Finance) [By Request of the Executive]

* (FN) indicates the bill has a Fiscal Note

* (IB) indicates the bill is an Interim Bill

Committee Action on Bills from Tuesday, January 16, 2024

10 a.m.: Government Organization

Com. Sub. for SB 217: Authorizing state and subdivisions to negotiate price for construction when all bids received exceed maximum budget
Committee substitute reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

SB 240: Increasing fees charged by sheriff
Bill reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

SB 264: Reducing rates for legal advertising
Bill reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

SB 438: Modifying roster requirements of authorizing entities
Bill reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

10 a.m.: Education

Com. Sub. for SB 280: Allowing teachers in public schools to teach intelligent design
Committee substitute reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

Com. Sub. for SB 152: Displaying official US motto in public schools
Committee substitute reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

SB 253: Establishing minimum student enrollment for school aid formula
Bill reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass; second reference to Finance

1 p.m.: Health and Human Resources

Com. Sub for SB 208: Establishing tax credit for certain physicians who locate to practice in WV
Committee substitute reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

SB 228: Requiring medically necessary care and treatment to address congenital anomalies associated with cleft lip and cleft palate
Bill not taken up

Com. Sub. for SB 293: Creating the Glucagon for Schools Act
Committee substitute reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

Com. Sub. for SB 300: Relating to the organization of the Office of the Inspector General
Committee substitute reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

3 p.m.: Judiciary

Com. Sub. for SB 269: Excluding test strips from definition of drug paraphernalia
Committee substitute reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

Com. Sub. for SB 17: Department of Health Bundle – Includes SB 17, Department of Health rule relating to public water systems operators; SB 18, Department of Health rule relating to wastewater systems and operators; SB 19, Department of Health rule relating to behavioral health centers’ licensure; SB 20, Department of Health rule relating to hospital licensure; SB 21, Department of Health rule relating to assisted living residences; SB 22, Department of Health rule relating to cross-connection control and backflow prevention; SB 23, Department of Health rule relating to fees for permits; SB 24, Department of Health rule relating to fees for services; SB 25, Department of Health rule relating to medical examiner requirements for postmortem inquiries; SB 26, Department of Health rule relating to newborn screening system; SB 27, Department of Health rule relating to distribution of funds from Emergency Medical Services Salary Enhancement Fund; SB 28, Department of Health rule relating to WV Clearance for Access: registry and employment screening; SB 29, DHHR rule relating to cooperative agreement approval and compliance; SB 30, DHHR rule relating to certificate of need; SB 31, Department of Human Services rule relating to collection and exchange of data related to overdoses; SB 32, DHHR rule relating to chronic pain management clinic licensure; SB 33, DHHR rule relating to medication-assisted treatment and office-based medication-assisted treatment; SB 34, Department of Human Services rule relating to procedure to contest substantiation of child abuse or neglect; SB 35; Family Protection Services Board rule relating to domestic violence program licensure standards
Committee substitute reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

Com. Sub. for SB 31: Department of Human Services Bundle – Includes SB 31, Department of Human Services rule relating to collection and exchange of data related to overdoses; SB 34, Department of Human Services rule relating to procedure to contest substantiation of child abuse or neglect; SB 35, Family Protection Services Board rule relating to domestic violence program licensure standards
Committee substitute reported to the full Senate with the recommendation it do pass

Bills that Have Passed the Senate as of Tuesday, January 16, 2024 (33)

SB 2: Authorizing DEP to promulgate rules (Pending House introduction)
SB 142: Clarifying deadline to file annual report for companies authorized to do business in WV (House Government Organization)
SB 143: Creating WV Guardian Program (House Education)
SB 144: Requiring each county board to ensure that its meetings are open to public through in-person attendance and broadcast live on its website (House Judiciary)
SB 146: Creating adult education taskforce (House Education)
SB 147: Adding definition of “ammunition” for purposes of obtaining state license to carry concealed deadly weapon (House Judiciary)
SB 148: Establishing auto-renewal program for wildlife licenses (House Government Organization)
SB 149: Relating to municipalities required to be represented on county authority boards (House Political Subdivisions)
SB 150: Clarifying when magistrate vacancies shall be filled (House Judiciary)
SB 151: Clarifying terms and offense of human smuggling (House Judiciary)
SB 154: Increasing penalties for drug possession and updating list of offenses (House Judiciary)
SB 155: Creating Violent Crime Prevention Act (House Judiciary)
SB 156: Requiring certain documents that contain wage records be considered confidential (Pending House introduction)
SB 157: Requiring one-year residency within district or county to fill vacancy in Legislature (House Judiciary)
SB 158: Enhancing penalties for fleeing officer (House Judiciary)
SB 159: Prohibiting persons convicted of certain crimes against minors from holding positions on boards of education (House Judiciary)
SB 160: Updating language and increasing penalties for indecent exposure (House Judiciary)
SB 162: Establishing Summer Feeding for All Program (House Education)
SB 163: Establishing aggravated felony offense of reckless driving resulting in death (House Judiciary)
SB 164: Relating generally to trespassing (House Judiciary)
SB 165: Creating pilot program for recovery residences in Cabell County (House Judiciary)
SB 166: Updating contested elections procedures (House Judiciary)
SB 168: Granting municipal fire marshal authority to assist law-enforcement officer (House Political Subdivisions)
SB 169: Allowing physician assistants to own practice (House Health and Human Resources)
SB 170: Relating to compensable diseases of certain firefighters covered by workers’ compensation (House Fire Departments and Emergency Medical Services)
SB 171: Prohibiting county commissions from adopting authorization that exceeds state law regarding agriculture operations (Pending House introduction)
SB 172: Revising requirements of local school improvement councils (House Education)
SB 173: Modifying certain guidelines for motor vehicle dealers, distributors, wholesalers, and manufacturers (Pending House introduction)
SB 175: Updating offenses of extortion and attempted extortion (House Judiciary)
SB 176: Relating to permissible expenditures by Water Development Authority from Infrastructure Fund (House Finance)
SB 177: Protecting consumers against automatic renewals without consent (House Judiciary)
SB 178: Relating to dental health care service plans (House Banking and Insurance)
SB 179: Requiring sheriff to serve child abuse and neglect petitions (House Judiciary)

Resolutions that Have Been Adopted by the Senate as of Tuesday, January 16, 2024 (3)

SCR 10: Urging WV congressional delegation support legislation authorizing county governments to sell FEMA property (House Government Organization)
SCR 16: Urging US Congress enact reforms to federal permitting policies to accelerate deployment of new energy infrastructure (House Rules)
SCR 17: Reaffirming support of WV Legislature for State of Israel and Jewish people (Pending House introduction)

Resolutions that Have Completed Legislation as of Tuesday, January 16, 2024 (2)

HCR 1: Raising a Joint Assembly to hear remarks of the Governor (Adopted, 01-10)
HCR 13: Commemorating the life of Marilyn Kay Parsons (Adopted, 01-11)

Committee times and agendas are subject to change. Follow @WVSenClerk on Twitter for updates.

Contact: Jacque Bland at (304) 357-7999

Member Press Release

Senator Mike Woelfel Proposes Childcare Tax Credit for Working Families

December 8, 2023
Written by Cheyenne

Charleston, WV – Senate Minority Leader Mike Woelfel (D-Cabell) is proposing a childcare tax credit for working families, which he will introduce as a bill in the 2024 legislative session.

Member Press Release

Erica Moore Takes Oath of Office

November 7, 2023
Written by Cheyenne

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Erica Moore of Spencer became the newest member of the West Virginia House of Delegates Nov. 6, carefully signing the oath in the Chamber atop a lightly dusted sheet of plastic that separates the wood of the House Clerk’s desk from omnipresent renovations.