Public Comments
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Nicole curry on February 13, 2026 07:27
The bill needs to pass the young lady didn’t even get jail time for killing an innocent soul named Bailey bower . The system failed Bailey and her family and the ppl . This gilr was high on cocaine , alcohol and more . Ppl go to jail longer for killing animals. They judge needs fired as well he needs stripped of his robe and title and license took . The system has failed a beautiful soul and her family and friends . Laws need to change the ppl r outraged about this please pass this bill . Please let baileys name and story be heard
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Roy kirk on February 13, 2026 07:23
stronger penalties
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Lisa Jude on February 13, 2026 07:18
I strongly support this bill. This is a problem through our WV . Recently my grandchildren were in a car coming home from school with their aunt. They were hit in the side of the car only because she had time to swerve and miss a head on collision. This person proceeded on to hit a trailer and completely destroyed the front porch. He was high on drugs and had drugs on him and this was his third offense driving on a revoked license.
Obviously a slap on the wrist isn’t enough to save families from this happening. Stricter penalties and punishment is a must!
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Genna Harold on February 13, 2026 07:07
Hello I am reaching out again to express support for this bill, now known as Baylea’s Law. Please pass this bill!
2026 Regular Session HB4413 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Miranda Brunty on February 13, 2026 07:01
Hello, I am deeply troubled by this bill. Needle exchange and clean need/syringe programs are evidence based initiatives that reduce the spread of HIV and Hep C. I beg you to step down from your moral high horse and think about the additional burden on our already overwhelmed healthcare system. This will be another nail in the coffin of increased healthcare rates over time. Cutting Medicaid and putting stipulations on it will already do enough damage. I would be happy to provide evidence based research for you to refer to. There are many, and this isn’t evidenced from a single random study. You can not legislate morality, but you can help ease the burden of the healthcare system and ensure a drug addict remains as healthy as they can to potentially seek treatment and become a contributing member of society. I am very afraid of the future and access of healthcare in this state. Please don’t make it be a death by a thousand cuts.
Thank you, Miranda Brunty MBA-HM2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Christopher Bias on February 13, 2026 07:00
Please make tougher penalties for those making bad decisions that crush the lives of others. Thank you
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Savannah peavler on February 13, 2026 06:49
For stricter punishments.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: James A Craig on February 13, 2026 06:42
- We need this .bill updated. My daughter was killed by drunk driver and pleaded quilty to DUI CAUSING DEATH AND HAVING A CONTROLED SUBSTANCE. She was supposed to be sentenced 3-15 years but at the sentencing the judge suspended sentence and gave her 6 months home confinement and after that 18 months in youth rehabilitation center
2026 Regular Session HB5043 (Finance)
Comment by: Dewanna Flowers on February 13, 2026 06:33
I am so worried about the cleanliness of our school. If it not sanitary we will have so much sickness with in the school system.
2026 Regular Session HB5043 (Finance)
Comment by: Nicole Milam on February 13, 2026 06:30
Cutting custodial jobs is going to affect the environment of our school. This will create an unsafe place because these custodians keep up with day to day concerns of the maintenance of the building. It creates an environment where the uptake of illnesses will increase to due to schools such as mine at South Charleston Middle with having such a large building. One evening custodian cannot effectively clean and disinfect the entire building. Please work to ensure this new policy does not affect our students, staff and community.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Edward Sutphin on February 13, 2026 06:09
Please get this bill passed and make it where the judges have to abide by the standout forth in the new law!!
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Kayla Meadows on February 13, 2026 06:04
This law should be passed to keep something like this from happening again. If the punishment is raised, it might keep people from drinking and driving and not caring about the consequences from their actions. Baylea should still be here. This was all preventable. People need to know you could change someone’s life in an instant. Baylea’s family will never be the same again without her. The minimum years in jail right now are not keeping people off the road when they are drunk. The punishment needs to be higher to make people think before they get in a car and drive while they’re drunk.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Ammie Cooper on February 13, 2026 05:55
I myself have witnessed first hand what a drunk driver can do to a family, my aunt was killed by a drunk driver back in 1993 April 15th. I still watch a father grief, a mother grief for their daughter, a sister and brother grief for their sister that non of them will ever see again because a careless fool got behind the wheel of a vehicle. They never received their closure nor peace.. but yet witnessed the same thing happen from the same man to another woman just a miles down the road on a different date, if we had a better law I know for a fact one life could have been saved one of those day’s. So when you go to consider this please think of not only sweet innocent Baylea but all of the others out there, and think to self what if that was your mother? Your father? Your sibling? Or even worse YOUR CHILD? That this horrible thing happened to, and that you see your child’s murder walking free while your child is deceased and can never come back because of a careless fools decisions. When someone gets behind the wheel intoxicated.. they understand what they’re putting on the line, their life or someone else’s or even a whole family.. so now it’s time to face consequences and take action so maybe next time there won’t be a next time for this to happen or take place.
God Bless you all, I hope and pray that this will never happen to any of y'all, it truly does destroy a family in multiple ways you couldn’t even imagine.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Justin Elliott Miller on February 13, 2026 05:47
My thoughts about on house bill 4712: Doubling the minimum/maximum sentences will not do a bit of good as long as we have judges who ignore the minimum and give slaps on the wrist for these needless killings of innocent people by lawbreakers who laugh in the face of laws while having a "good" time.
In my Granddaughter in Laws case, her killer expressed zero remorse for her actions, blaming others for causing her to use drugs and alcohol and drive. She even bragged about her lifestyle on her social media page about living the party life. So! Until there is a mandatory confinement for their actions there is no deterrent.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: April Haney on February 13, 2026 05:44
The injustice that was given to this family today is beyond heartbreaking. Please grant this law so it never happens again.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Adam Wright on February 13, 2026 05:38
Please support HB4712
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: hannah lovejoy on February 13, 2026 05:26
💙
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Erika Webb on February 13, 2026 05:22
There has to be greater consequences for dui causing death. People drink and drive daily and I know they always will but maybe this new Bill will make someone think twice before getting behind that wheel. Baylea’s death has affected and destroyed so many lives and broken an entire community and just when we though that justice was going to be served, the girl that took her life was handed a slap on the wrist. The punishment absolutely did not fit the crime and was an absolute slap in the face to everyone who knew and loved Baylea. It could be your or mine family next time someone decides to drink and drive…. we have to make a change NOW!
2026 Regular Session HB4915 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 05:04
The vaccines are turning the frogs gay/s
/s is sarcasm
Y'all continue to disappoint me. You have the entire internet full of scholarly articles that have studied just this. You know what they found? No link to vaccines and SIDS and similar. It took me a grand total of 0.2 seconds to find two peer reviewed articles on this, and a grand total of 10 minutes to look up each author to make sure they're legit.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Stephanie Massey on February 13, 2026 05:02
Legislators,
It is imperative that this bill is passed, with definitive punishment for DUI causing death. Baylea Bower was killed without mercy due to a drug and alcohol laden driver. This is a crime, and should be punished to the full extent of the law. It’s time to take a stand for victims of crimes such as this. It’s time to stop the pity parties for the offenders. Please pass this bill.
2026 Regular Session HB4894 (Energy and Public Works)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 04:34
This seems like a good one
2026 Regular Session HB4891 (Energy and Public Works)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 04:30
I'm down for this.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Eric Halstead on February 13, 2026 04:13
Horrendous outcome of our current law and judgement in the case of Destiny Lester! Basically no jail time for taking a life while under the influence of cocaine and alcohol!
No true consequence from the law on the books! Please consider Baylee’s Law
2026 Regular Session HB4885 (Finance)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 04:10
I'm all for paying lower prices at the pumps but I feel as if this may not be the best idea. Where do you plan on making up the lost revenue? I'm mostly wondering what other bills/taxes will be jacked up if this is removed, and how it will affect us as a whole.
On one hand yay, lower prices at the pumps. On the other hand, How is this going to affect the budget. Will we have to cut out some much needed support like potable water for Wayne county, or will some of our other taxes go way up?
2026 Regular Session HB4875 (Finance)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 03:59
I'm down for this
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Shawna jones on February 13, 2026 03:53
Hello there 38yrs ago my maternal grandfather got killed by a intoxicated driver and he didn't do no time and the state still paid for this intoxicated man to drive a motorized vehicle 😡, but for this here family they was not served justice either today which is very very 😔 for taken a life 😔 😡, and this bill here needs to be passed please, thank you very much
2026 Regular Session HB4868 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 03:45
We definitely need this, especially given today digital age.
2026 Regular Session HB5345 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Bill Slack on February 13, 2026 03:44
This is a common sense proposal that has been needed for a long time. If passed, this will greatly assist providers to maintain stable economics of this essential community service. These facilities have very few if any variable costs, and in order to budget, plan and function optimally, need a steady, stable, "forecastable" reimbursement stream. Changing the reimbursement formula to monthly based on enrollment, rather than hourly/daily attendance will play a very important role in improving the long term viability of this service for the people in our community requiring your assistance in this program.
2026 Regular Session HB4860 (Education)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 03:38
I'm all for this. Teachers often end up spending their own money to buy supplies for their classrooms, anything to help 'em the better.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Beth on February 13, 2026 03:34
Once intoxicated a person can not make good decisions, the decisions are made prior to going out by planning to not drive, having a DD or simply knowing when to call an Uber.
We live in a world where most think " that won't happen to me" and this is where this Bill is needed. Stronger punishment that is actually handed out may cause people to stop and think about their decisions. Life is precious, our babies are precious regardless of their age and they deserve to live a long happy life and not have it taken so tragic. Tougher sentences also comes with the legal system enforcing the punishment.
2026 Regular Session HB4855 (Education)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 03:34
Y'all are really out to make our education worse this year aren't y'all? Sooooooooo many bad educational bills. Did y'all make a secrete bet with Mississippi or something to see who could reach the bottom first? You wonder why people are leaving this state. We want a our kids to actually have a future, and that means a good education. WV does not have that. Yet here y'all are trying to make the educational system even worse than it already is. (not for this)
2026 Regular Session HB4843 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 03:13
This seems like a good one, and a needed one in this day in age. The less my data is stored the better. The less chance for it to be leaked like with what happened with that background checking agency that leaked close to 3 billion identities (2.9b).
2026 Regular Session HB4838 (Finance)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 03:04
No bueno to this. These vehicles are already expensive enough, on top of that WV has very weak infrastructure (if any) for alternative fuel vehicles (with the exception of hybrids). We dont need to double the price. For what reason would we have for doubling it? Because its not an ICE* vehicle and big oil cant get its money? We already have enough pollution in WV why not incentivize more of these vehicles to keep/get better air quality, or to at least try to offset some of the damage done, but nOoOoooOooo this is West Virginia where we always gotta take 1/2 a step forward and 5 steps back. Y'all this aint the cha cha slide, we walk.
* ICE- Internal Combustion Engine
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Kassidie Eplin on February 13, 2026 02:55
I’m a young mother of two small children, ages 1 and 6, and every single day I see posts and stories about kids being killed in accidents caused by negligent drivers.
For a moment, if you have kids, put yourself in that situation. You’re driving down the road, your favorite song is playing, your babies are safe in the backseat… and in an instant your whole world shatters. You’re no longer singing along you’re crying over your child because an impaired driver chose to get behind the wheel.
No matter your child’s age 1, 6, 20, 25, or 30 they are still someone’s baby, someone’s daughter, someone’s son. When their life is taken, it’s gone forever. That’s a loss you can never, ever get back.
Tragedies like this bring deep outrage, especially in small communities where people remember and carry that pain. Honestly, the safest place for a driver responsible for something like that is jail where they can’t hurt anyone else and can’t be harmed themselves. While a victim loses their life, the impaired driver still gets to wake up the next day. That alone is a blessing, and in many ways, compassion enough after taking someone else’s life.
Thousands of children are killed every year, whether it’s them driving under the influence or someone else. The truth is, people who choose to drive impaired often keep doing it unless there are real consequences. Yes, they need may need rehab and help and that should also be provided but they NEED accountability. That means facing SERIOUS punishment so they truly understand the weight of their choices and TRULY get clean of whatever they’re on/using. God sparing their life is mercy enough; they shouldn’t walk free without consequences after taking someone else’s.
2026 Regular Session HB4824 (Energy and Public Works)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 02:38
this seems pretty fair
2026 Regular Session HB4836 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 02:37
I'm all for this. The amount of times i've went into a grocery store like Walmart and seen someones dog make a biohazard mess in the vegetable aisle is too high. Most of the pets i've encountered in these places have been dogs, and a majority were poorly trained, if at all. In addition it makes it harder/ more dangerous for folks with pet allergies to shop as half of the pets were put in buggies. All fine and dandy right? well there's a concentration of hair there and you're moderately allergic to whatever animal was in it last. Now you got to try and find a buggy thats not covered in pet hair, which is probably five buggys back, so you're making a mess in the buggy bay trying to find one thats not fur riddled to shop in peace.
2026 Regular Session HB4765 (Finance)
Comment by: Taylor on February 13, 2026 02:22
I love the idea of increasing wage for educators. As long as we have a way of providing the money then it doesn't hurt anybody. especially since teachers have been asking for better pay for son long. After all the protesting and patience i see no reason for educators wages not to be raised.
2026 Regular Session HB4799 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 02:21
I'm down for this.
2026 Regular Session HB4797 (Government Administration)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 02:18
Naw dawg this aint it. (no)
2026 Regular Session HB4794 (Education)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 02:15
Okay, bet. How many of y'all can pass this so called test without the use of technology nor textbooks right now?
Honestly I'm fine with this. Then maybe some of the gen alpha will see how full of it the politicians actually are, and how few actually know what they're talking about in terms of the constitution.
2026 Regular Session HB4781 (Banking and Insurance)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 01:50
This seems good i'm for it. It seems like it'd really help some folks, espically those with PCOS. PCOS is a hormonal disorder which can cause facial hair in women, along with excessive hair growth in general, and once it starts growing it usually doesnt stop even if the pcos is treated. It may thin out, but it ususally will still grow in unwanted areas.
2026 Regular Session HB4727 (Education)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 01:38
I'm for this, the teachers really need this. We rank #49 in the US in terms of avg teachers pay.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Michele Bailey on February 13, 2026 01:35
Praying for fairer sentencing when lives are taken through selfish acts. Justice was not served for Mrs Bower.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Chuck and Leah Bias on February 13, 2026 01:29
It is our belief that this bill should be passed. So many families of our state have lost loved ones, fathers mothers, children and get no justice from a person who has chosen to drink and drive and taking the lives of innocent people. Imagine if this was your child….think about that a minute…if this was your child or your mother that lost their life because of someone else’s inconsiderate and neglectful decisions to go against the law and drink and drive wouldn’t you feel the punishment should fit the crime. Yes it should be doubled, there shouldn’t even be any chance of early release, that child or mother has no other chance to live a life that was so carelessly taken away. Please pass this bill to maybe help protect or children and families.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 01:27
I'm for this, i've seen my fair share of... very not bright... folks drinking and driving. Especially back when I was in highschool. Which was within the last decade. Nowadays we have plenty of ways to get from point A to B without driving ourselves. We can call an uber, or ride share, we can call a friend or family member, or just something other than drive yourself while impared. They basically have little to no excuse for it. Or heck if you know you're going to be drinking someplace and dont have a solid ride plan on, idk sleeping at a friends place.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Pam weaver on February 13, 2026 01:19
. A higher minimum sentence should be inforced and followed thru with for said drivers that have taken a life of someone causing death , Pass this bill.
2026 Regular Session HB4705 (Education)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 01:13
If they want a moment of silence to reflect on stuff they may do so before they go to school.
Plus we all can tell this is a thinly veiled way of addend y'alls religious stuff in schools. You try to make it seem differently, but this thing absolutely reeks of it.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Frank D Hannah on February 13, 2026 01:04
I feel that making a decision to drive a motor vehicle while impaired, especially causing death should have a mandatory sentence. A family that looses someone doesn't need another heartbreak. A judge in his singularity should not be burdened with making the decision of a smack on the hand or prison. I sincerely believe this bill needs to be passed.
2026 Regular Session HB4703 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 01:04
i'm for this
2026 Regular Session HB4701 (Education)
Comment by: Toki on February 13, 2026 01:01
I get where y'all are coming from, but for the love of all things just pay the teachers more. Y'all will literally do everything but that. This bill sounded good at first but once you go further into it, its a straight up joke.
"For West Virginia to retain and attract teachers and educators in this particular field, our state must ensure that qualified teachers within West Virginia are incentivized to stay and work in West Virginia schools."You want to retain and attract teachers, yeah thats fair, but according to the NEA educator pay data 2025 rankings; The state of West Virginia ranks #49 in teacher pay in the United States at an average of $57,437. If it wasnt for Mississippi we'd be #50 again, and let me tell you, we're not beating Mississippi by much. Just a measly $1,448 per year.
"West Virginia currently faces a shortage of educators, particularly with those who have specialized training in the mathematics, science and special education fields, which has likely contributed to underperformance in student test scores."The under performance in test scores probably has a lot to do with the whole "paying bottom dollar for educators and expecting excellent results" dilemma y'all seem to be going through.
"(1) A math, science or special education teacher who has been employed in an elementary or secondary public school in this state for three years shall be eligible for up to $2,000 in debt relief through this scholarship.Yeah the above seems like a start. Its not good, but its better than nothing. Then we go into the below(2) A math, science or special education teacher who has been employed in an elementary or secondary public school in this state for six years shall be eligible for up to $4,000 in debt relief: Provided, That the total debt relief per teacher may not exceed $4,000."
Masters degree? Y'all want them to have a Masters Degree and stay in WV for some of the worst teacher pay in the United States for three to six years for a chance of a measly 2-4k. Do you know how much a masters in education costs? A masters degree in education costs $40,000-$60,000. Which is insane for starters. For the sake of this comment lets say a masters in education is $50,000 and takes three years to complete. That is about $8,333.33 a year, or $4166.66 a semester. Assuming someone does go this route and they make it the six years, thats less than one semester paid for, but what about the other 5 semesters? In addition this bill says up to so the 2k or 4k is not even guaranteed if they do rough it out in this state."§18C-10-4. Eligibility requirements; agreements; sunset provision.
(a) To be eligible for the West Virginia Math, Science, and Special Education Teacher Scholarship Program, an individual shall satisfy the following requirements: (2) Have completed at least a Master's Degree in Education, with a specialization in mathematics, science or special education;"
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Maci Bailey on February 13, 2026 00:53
There is a life gone now because someone was driving under the influence. A married woman that was simply driving to church never made it there. She never made it home to her husband that day that was just starting their lives together. She had her whole life ahead of her. She will never get to experience new adventures with her husband, family, and friends and she will never get to become a mother. A daughter was taken from her parents by an act of immaturity that shouldn’t have happened. What the judge ruled in her case was senseless showed negligence and the justice for her was dismissed. This bill is important to be passed to show some kind of justice for Baylee and her family! I pray the right choice will be made for this bill and her family can find some kind of peace out of this tragedy since the judge in her case clearly could not give them that. So please vote for this bill to pass, us fellow West Virginians need some hope that not all of our judicial system is broken. Thank you!
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Misty Toney on February 13, 2026 00:35
Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is a premeditated act and should be treated as such. It is not an accident or a mistake. It is also not taken seriously by offenders nor the justice system. Baylea’s Law would be a great first step in rectifying this attitude held by too many.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Cristy Anderson on February 13, 2026 00:33
All penalties for drunk driving need to be tougher, whether they cause death or not.
Our existing laws are so pitiful that they are no deterrent at all. We shouldn’t wait until someone gets killed before we care to enact a sentence. Passing Baylea’s law would be a good start, but unless we pass laws that require tough mandatory sentences from the first offense, we aren’t dissuading people from driving drunk.
Completely eliminate the home confinement loophole.
Make jail sentences longer for first and second offenses. A 48 hour jail sentence, when part of it is spent sleeping it off in your cell, isn’t much of a punishment.
2026 Regular Session SB694 (Education)
Comment by: Vickie Billings on February 13, 2026 00:32
I do not think it is a good idea at all to remove the county residency for county superintendents. How does someone know what our county needs if they do not reside and have taught in that county. We have many fine teachers that live in this county that would make fine superintendents. Matter of fact we have at least one that has taught and that has been a principal and k owes the I reworking of our schools.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Holly on February 13, 2026 00:24
STOP LETTING DRUNKS AND DRUG ADDICTS OPERATE VEHICLES AND THEN KILL INNOCENT PEOPLE IN THEIR PATHS!!!! IF THEY CONTINUE TO CHOOSE TO BE NEGLIGENT THEN THE PUNISHMENT SHOULD FIT THE CRIME. STOP LETTING THEM CONTINUE TO WALK AWAY WITH JUST A TAP ON THE WRIST!!!! THIS IS WHY IT WILL NEVER STOP UNTIL YOU GET SERIOUS WITH THEIR PUNISHMENTS!!!!
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Savannah Nelson on February 13, 2026 00:23
Please consider this bill. Far too many West Virginian’s have lost their family members due to impaired driving. There are many reasons why letting someone off so easily can never be okay. If anyone were to oppose this bill, they would have made all family members past, and present feeling as if their family members died in vein and did not get proper justice. Please consider this bill. If it were to be passed, may it be a small portion of peace for families that have lost loved ones. It is their last cries for their family members. Please help protect your fellow West Virginians with this bill; past, present and future.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Hazel on February 13, 2026 00:17
Hope that the families gets justice
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Kelly Grubb on February 13, 2026 00:10
I think it’s a shame you can get high on drugs and alcohol and get behind the wheel of a car kill someone and basically receive a slap on the wrist!!! What on earth is wrong with our judicial system and these judges handing out these barely there sentences for such awful crimes!! We are sick of drunks and dope heads killing our loved ones then some soft judge lets them walk! It needs to stop these people need to be punished and severely punished!
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Shelbee Balentine on February 12, 2026 23:58
This bill should not be of question if it should be passed. Making the choice to drive so impaired, is murder. The consequences should absolutely represent that.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Shannon Cook on February 12, 2026 23:52
I think this bill should go into affect. They are to many people thats losing there lifes do to drinking and driving accidents. I think that they need to be harsher punishment for this! Please pass this bill! Thanks!
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Eric Blankenship on February 12, 2026 23:44
The travesty that took place with the sentence that was issued for Baylee’s killer is horrific ruling and miscarriage of justice and this bill would eliminate the possibility of that ever happening again. So PLEASE pass this bill swiftly and with the harshest punishment possible! Thank you
2026 Regular Session HB4067 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Jennifer on February 12, 2026 23:31
I am a mother of two in Wayne County. This bill would help child care workers afford care for their own children while continuing to work in their field. Our children are the future. Literally. We as a society have an obligation to ensure their safety and education so they can become successful, functioning members of society when they grow up. However, that can be incredibly difficult when the cost of child care is too expensive and those who work in child care do not make a decent wage. It takes more than one income to maintain a financially stable home these days, and it takes a special person to work in child care. They truly care about the children they care for. This bill would help them continue to teach and care for our children while having peace of mind that their children are also safe and cared for..and still being able to afford food and gas for the week.
2026 Regular Session HB4517 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Jennifer on February 12, 2026 23:23
To whom it may concern, my name is Jennifer and I’m a mother of two in Wayne County. I am currently working a part time job while also going to nursing school full time. The cost of child care directly affects my ability to go to work and school. The cost of living these days requires two good incomes, which makes it incredibly hard for parents of small children who require round-the-clock care and are struggling to afford child care. This tax credit would encourage businesses to invest in child care and would make a tremendous difference in my community. Having to make the choice between going to work so I can feed my family, and being fired for not coming in due to lack of funds for child care is a choice no parent should have to make. Businesses that invest in their employees by supporting child care strengthen workforce participation, reduce turnover, and drive sustainable economic growth.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: madison bower on February 12, 2026 23:15
.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Lydia Esekielu on February 12, 2026 23:01
DUIs resulting in death should have harsher punishments. Period.
2026 Regular Session HB4593 (Education)
Comment by: Donna Cornell on February 12, 2026 22:41
I agree that students should not be required to take a PE class if they can prove they have a certain amount of activity a week. As and active student with multiple activities, a PE class would just make me more exhausting and harder on me.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Amanda Lambert on February 12, 2026 22:40
This bill is important for our state, especially after todays sentencing of Destiny Lester is proof of that. There has been stronger sentencing handed out for animal abuse in this state. For a 18 year old to walk away with no jail time after dui causing death is disgusting we have to do better.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Connie Rhodes on February 12, 2026 22:39
There needs to be higher penalties for impaired and drunk drivers killing killing innocent people
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Dreama Viars on February 12, 2026 22:37
This bill needs approved by the legislature and the senate. There needs to be tougher penalties for those that decide to drive under the influence. What happened to Baylea Bower is very sad. Her family and friends have to grieve her because of a selfish act by another. That girl deserves more than she’s getting. How will others learn if there’s no real consequences for their actions.
Sincerely, From someone who wants to see a change in this law!
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Raegan Harper on February 12, 2026 22:34
Pass the bill, make a difference that will help families not suffer like the Craigs
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Kayla Lively on February 12, 2026 22:32
I support this bill, we have so many people out walking around after committing murder. That’s exactly what it is. They knew what they were doing when they got in the driver seat and started the engine. We need change!
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Sydney Story on February 12, 2026 22:24
I vote in favor of this bill
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Dena Russrll on February 12, 2026 22:24
Please pass this bill so that families receive proper justice when a preventable death occurs at the hands of a drunk. There needs to be a stiffer penalty to help deter drunk driving. Make it known who the real victims are in these situations. What if it was your family member?
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Jessica Ruiz on February 12, 2026 22:23
Please consider this bill
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Sydney Gillenwater on February 12, 2026 22:22
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Leslie Cooper on February 12, 2026 22:19
What happened today in Raleigh County is a prime example as to why WV needs this bill! People should be held accountable for their actions and not just get a slap on the wrist!
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Trina Smith on February 12, 2026 22:18
Please fight for the passing of Baylea’s Bill.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Mackenzie Powers on February 12, 2026 22:14
Baylea never deserved any of this. She needs justice. No one else needs to go through was her friend and family have went through.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Evonne Hamilton on February 12, 2026 22:11
I support Baileys law
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Paul Coon on February 12, 2026 22:10
This legislation is needed because of the judicial recklessness we have in our country and state right now. The person responsible for all this made up her mind to do what she did that night without any thought to consequences and she appears to have beat the system we believed would bring justice. She is at fault, the judge is at fault and we as a community have to suffer for what these two people have done.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Amanda loftis on February 12, 2026 22:07
Please pass Baylea law for drunk and impaired drives! No one deserves to have to bury their child because a sorry individual chose to drink and drive and kill them! It infuriates me that a judge never even gave the drunk driver jail time she should have got the maximum sentence, and for that poor family that was a slap in the face today! Please pass this law so no other family will hve to go through what this poor family is going through! It’s sad as a state it has to come to this and get a law passed to make it more harsher for an individual drinking and driving this should never even be happening! As a state we should be protecting our people from people drinking and driving! Also for whoever is reading these what if this was your family member! Let’s get this law passed please and as fast as possible just maybe we can save another heartache or death to another family!
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Summer on February 12, 2026 22:06
This bill needs to be passed. Please do this to help encourage making better decisions and keeping others alive.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Connie Anderson on February 12, 2026 21:59
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Please pass Baylea Law we need more penalties for this type of crime. House bill 4712.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Beth Eskew on February 12, 2026 21:58
Baylea Nevada Craig Bower deserved way more than the hand she was dealt. This new bill would allow families in the future that are affected by drunk drivers more justice than Baylea was awarded.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Lori Grounds on February 12, 2026 21:57
This bill is extremely important for Justice for families who suffer from the tragic loss of lives and or injuries of family members impacted by the senseless and careless acts of others who choose to get behind the wheel of a vehicle while under the influence! Maximum sentencing, maximum conviction, the lives impacted and the loss of a loved one can never be reversed or replaced but at least by having this bill in place then any future court proceedings will enforce judges to give justice for those impacted! Justice was not given for Baylea, her family, her friends and loved ones, so let’s put a bill in place for the future generations to think twice about such incompetence and inconsiderate acts..
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Beverly Milam on February 12, 2026 21:44
Please pass this Bill this is one Bill that needed attention for so many years.Justice For Baylea.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Victoria Phillips on February 12, 2026 21:42
I agree
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Janie Belcher on February 12, 2026 21:39
The Bower/Craig family will not be the last family to go through this, it could be your family next. We need to have strict laws that will be held up in a court and not have a judge to be able to suspend sentencing.
I am begging you to pass Baylea’s law!!
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Michelle Harris on February 12, 2026 21:38
I hope this law passes. I’m sick of seeing innocent people lose their lives over drugs and alcohol.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Nancy Woody on February 12, 2026 21:36
Please pass this bill!!
2026 Regular Session HB4460 (Environment, Infrastructure, and Technology)
Comment by: Logan Campbell on February 12, 2026 21:35
To The House:
I recently purchased a house that has its own well and septic. My property is self sufficient and has been since it was built by the previous owner in 1979. Since then, at some point in the early 2000's, the previous homeowner granting an easement to Berkeley County Sewage that would eventually, unknowingly, come back to haunt him. Two years later this pipe was laid by the contractor and he was gifted a letter demanding money for something he never intended to use--what we now call an "availability fee." How there is not more rage about such a bill is absolutely baffling; perhaps too many people are passive and compliant, despite it not making any rational sense. The previous homeowner was my grandad. And I have proof of him trying to fight the sewage availability fees for some time thereafter. Long story short there was nothing he could do due to the empowerment this bill gave the public sewage company (8-18-22). Now, almost two decades of fees for not using any services, I consider this legal theft. I am all for helping the community, I love my community, but availability fees do nothing more than further empower a monopolized sector of our local economy to lay more pipe and demand more fees from people who did not want them in the first place, with no way out. I must add that my encounters with Berkeley County Sewage has been the worst experience since purchasing a home; from "disconnection" threats and related fees, to threatening to send the health department out and condemn my house until hookup, even placing a lien on my house if I don't choose to pay. Tell me, in what world does that make anyone proud of their community? And how would this ever be able to be argued that these fees are in the interest of community health and safety? It does nothing but place citizens backs against the wall--a fight or flight situation.
Forcing public utilities is a scam, adding fees to homeowners they never budgeted for and may not be able to handle--such as connection fees, and monthly service fees--when they have a healthy system of their own they are maintaining is not at all a communal responsibility; the people deserve a right to refuse availability and connection where it is not needed. If it is not to be a requirement as a full disclosure to the homeowner on the easement (especially as in my case), then the fixing needs to be here at the source--this amendment. Furthermore, how can a utility company threaten me with health department visits when as of 2021 the EPA cited them with over 1300 permit violations and over 500 sewage overflows!? To date, these overflows are still a very real and serious threat the public health and safety as it is a yearly concern to swim and fish in the Opequon Creek and Potomac River. Our local county is alway making the news for it. Seems like my septic system is far safer and certainly more maintained than theirs.
I am in favor of this bill because it will allow law abiding citizens like myself the ability to not clash with legally backed utility monopolies that arguably do not have the local communities health as their number one priority. Rather, they're more focused on expansion for capital where they are not wanted nor needed, only to add more sewage to a system that already can't handle the waste coming in. I speak for the community, and in no way should citizens be forced to pay a company that can not maintain health and safety standards. Put the rights back in to the people's hands.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Hannah Skeens on February 12, 2026 21:35
Baylea Craig-Bower was killed Easter Sunday in 2025 because Destany Lester, 19, decided to get behind the wheel after drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, smoking marijuana, and getting high on cocaine. Destany was so intoxicated that she passed through a grassy median going 90mph and hit Baylea head on.
Baylea did not deserve this. Baylea’s family and friends did not deserve this. Baylea was just trying to go home to be with her family on Easter Sunday. Destany Lester is selfish. She chose to get drunk and high and get behind the wheel. After today’s sentencing I ENCOURAGE you to take a deep dive into the laws that occur for DUI’s that result in murder. It is honestly such an injustice that Destany is spending less than the minimum sentencing for murdering Baylea. Please, consider yourself in the shoes of Baylea’s family and friends. What if this was your daughter or loved one? I know YOU would want and expect a harsher sentence. Let’s set an example today. Baylea’s law needs to be passed. The laws in WV are not strict enough. People like Destany just get a slap on the wrist for ruining the lives of Baylea’s husband, family, and friends. Make people think twice before drinking and driving. Baylea’s life could not have been saved, but I believe Baylea’s Law could save thousands. Be the example that we need in WV.
PASS BAYLEAS LAW. #JusticeForBaylea
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Valerie Halstead on February 12, 2026 21:30
I support “Baylee’s Bill” resulting in harsher sentences for those convicted of causing death or injury while driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
2026 Regular Session HB5053 (Public Education)
Comment by: Josiah Batten on February 12, 2026 21:26
I strongly oppose this bill.
Based on current statistics, 11.7% of students in public school will be sexually abused by a teacher by high school graduation. That doesn't include other forms of abuse, nor abuse at the hands of other students (which increase the rate substantially).
Yet even one negative event in the homeschooling community becomes a bludgeon that opponents of educational freedom use to restrict the safest forms of education.
I urge all members of the Legislature, and especially Republicans, to vote "No" on this thinly-veiled assault on educational freedom.
2026 Regular Session HB4013 (Finance)
Comment by: Griffin on February 12, 2026 21:26
I'm all for giving some credits to gain NEW business in the state. But I don't feel the credits should last forever, I'd rather them be more of a start up credit with a 5 year max. I would also like to see the credits be tied to mandating IN STATE (resident) employees and utilization of IN STATE companies for supplies and contracts.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Ricky Elkins on February 12, 2026 21:26
You see what happened today, the injustice, the family left to grieve knowing the murderer who killed their child got a slap on the wrist a time out per say. Hold these criminals accountable hold the judges accountable. This is the most disgusting justice I’ve ever seen or heard of.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Maegan Eplin on February 12, 2026 21:22
What a SHAME letting this girl go home as Baylee’s family has to go home without her. Absolutely mind blowing!! I, myself have been a victim of dui in 2006 and now in 2025, I suffer from a lot of injuries and ailments. I’ll never be the same. Why are we the ones to suffer and the drunk/cracked out drivers run free!!! They need to FIRE all these judges and whomever else that don’t wanna lay the laws down. Very saddened for Bayleas’s family. What a slap in the face from the ones that are supposed to be helping victims!! Wake up.
2026 Regular Session HB5479 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Concerned Independent Voter on February 12, 2026 21:17
This bill appears to be redundant as we already have laws and regulations that require law enforcement to identify themselves, wear standard uniforms and badges and advise the reason for their presence. If asked during a traffic stop they are required to give their name/badge number (which can also be seen on their proper uniform). Officers are also already REQUIRED to give name, badge number or contact info for the department to file a complaint against an officer. Exception being undercover as this bill would allow as well.
I encourage you to vote NO on this bill as it is an unneeded piece of legislation likely submitted to ride the propaganda coattails.
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Samantha Miller on February 12, 2026 21:15
This bill should be considered. Although no amount of sentencing will comfort the victim’s family and friends left behind, an extension would be beneficial. The number of DUI incidents is increasing every day because, in my opinion, people are not taking the consequences seriously. Driving while intoxicated is very frightening, and the thought of bringing my family onto the road with others who do this daily terrifies me. I wish more people understood how easily a life can be lost for a few moments of “fun.”
2026 Regular Session HB4712 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Charlotte Sutphin on February 12, 2026 21:15
We need this bill to pass so people will think more about the consequences of drinking and driving. Families shouldn’t haft to bury their children because someone didn’t think. If there were stiffer penalties, maybe they will think twice.