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Public Comments

2026 Regular Session HB4060 (Finance)
Comment by: Amanda B on January 19, 2026 20:56
I oppose this bill. Many small businesses are able to operate with cashless technology. A food truck for example does not need the liability of driving around with cash.
2026 Regular Session HB4470 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:55
I strongly oppose this bill, which undermine election integrity by making it possible for people to sell their vote.
2026 Regular Session HB4069 (Finance)
Comment by: Elizabeth Clark on January 19, 2026 20:52
The use of helmets by motorcycle operators has proven to be an effective means of reducing injuries to the operator.  Removing this requirement will increase the number of serious injuries and increase the cost of vehicle insurance for everyone.  I request that you vote against this reckless bill.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Sunita Torres on January 19, 2026 20:52
This bill is disgusting and should have never been drafted, let alone be presented for consideration.
2026 Regular Session HB4509 (Energy and Public Works)
Comment by: Melanie Climis on January 19, 2026 20:51
HB4509 needs to become law. The burdens connected with data centres that the existing legislation places on communities are extreme.  Water and power demands will leave communities struggling through scarcity or expense under the current law.
HB4509 places regulation and control back in hands of those who will be most impacted by those burdens. HB4509 must become law.
2026 Regular Session HB4530 (Energy and Public Works)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:48
I oppose this bill. There is no reason why intersections in retail shopping areas should be prioritized any differently than any other road improvement project. A better course of action is to require that property owners generating a significant amount of traffic be assessed the cost of making improvements that serve their properties rather than expecting taxpayers to pay the bill.
2026 Regular Session HB4465 (Education)
Comment by: Forest A Dolin on January 19, 2026 20:39
This bill could help people trying to get certified through a non traditional pathway.  Working your way up from a substitute to a fully certified teacher will be easier when the pay is not as restricted.
2026 Regular Session HB4122 (Public Education)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:37
Two years later and not even a cost-of-living adjustment to pay rates? Unacceptable. No wonder West Virginia has trouble retaining teachers.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Barbara Peet on January 19, 2026 20:35
I have several issues with HB 4433. 1. HB 4433 raises serious concerns about cost and liability for our state and local governments. Expanding enforcement roles usually means higher expenses, and more lawsuits. 2. I oppose HB 4433 because it raises real concerns about due process and constitutional rights. Expanding enforcement power without strong oversight puts fundamental freedoms at risk. West Virginians value fairness, accountability, and limits on government overreach. This bill doesn’t align with those values. Lawmakers should reject HB 4433 and uphold the civil liberties of everyone who calls West Virginia home. 3. Most importantly, as a West Virginian, I care about the safety and stability of my community. HB 4433 would create fear and uncertainty for families who live, work, and contribute here every day. Punitive, surveillance based policies don’t solve complex issues. They erode trust and make communities weaker, not stronger. Please oppose HB 4433 and support solutions that actually bring people
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:33
I strongly oppose this bill. Someone's immigration status has no bearing on if they become a victim of human trafficking. It is inhumane to single out and exclude a group from restitution for the crimes done against them in the way this bill proposes.
2026 Regular Session HB4376 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:29
I support this bill. I would like to see it go further by banning appointments of business partners as well.
2026 Regular Session HB4122 (Public Education)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:23
I oppose this bill absent a mandate to provide additional state funding to pay for it.
2026 Regular Session HB4079 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:20
I oppose this pointless legislation. The bill contradicts itself, claiming to prohibit the use of "sexist language" and then going on to mandate a series of sex-specific terms.
2026 Regular Session HB4073 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:17
I oppose this bill. It undermines public health and one of the few areas where West Virginia has good health outcomes. There are already other alternatives available for those who profess vaccination is against their religious belief.
2026 Regular Session HB4052 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:15
I oppose this bill's language on "harassment" as being subjective and an infringement on the constitutional right of free speech.
2026 Regular Session HB4034 (Education)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:11
I oppose this bill. West Virginians are of many faiths, with some having no religious background at all. It is inappropriate for the state to hold up any one religious doctrine above others as would be done with this bill. Also, considering the legislative majority's supposed focus on jobs and the state economy this session, I question why we are again seeing socially divisive bills like this being introduced by its members.
2026 Regular Session HB4015 (Government Organization)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:06
I oppose this bill. There is no reason why state taxpayers should be subsidizing the construction of private hotels.
2026 Regular Session HB4017 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 20:01
I oppose this bill. While faith-based providers are important service providers for many social services, if they wish to receive public money, they should be held to the same standards as any other provider and deliver the services in a secular, non-discriminatory manner.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Ibtesam Sue Barazi on January 19, 2026 20:00
Please DO NOT PASS THIS BILL PLEASE FOCUS ON ECNOMIC VISBLITY AND BILLS THAT MATTERTO WV
2026 Regular Session HB4449 (Public Education)
Comment by: Jess Stan on January 19, 2026 19:57
I don’t believe this bill should be passed yet the way it’s written, the kids need More protection then this!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2026 Regular Session HB4021 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 19:55
While I support the intent of expanding services available in-state for children, particularly those in the state's custody, it is unclear to me why there needs to be a special revenue fund for this purpose. This strikes me as an attempt to look like something is being done without actually doing anything, by pointing to a fund that does not have sufficient money to actually address the issue. For this reason, I suggest striking 49-13-102 and removing references to the fund in 49-13-103 and allowing use of general revenue appropriations instead.
2026 Regular Session HB4025 (Government Organization)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 19:48
I strongly oppose this bill, which attempts to remove civil service protections from a large swath of West Virginia's public employees.
2026 Regular Session HB4033 (Local Governments)
Comment by: Brian Powell on January 19, 2026 19:44
I oppose this bill as written. The term "community" is undefined and vague. It is unclear if this is intended to represent municipalities, county, Census-designated place, or something else.
2026 Regular Session HB4500 (Finance)
Comment by: Erica F on January 19, 2026 19:31
I strongly oppose the proposed new sports complex being built on the 256 acres of farmland at Tabler Station Rd.. South Berkeley county WV has already been overdeveloped along I-81 and this would make it MUCH worse. Also, this land backs up to many neighborhoods; there are others places in Berkeley county where this complex could be built that wouldn’t affect any neighborhoods. I am not opposed to a sports complex being built, just not on this proposed location.
2026 Regular Session HB4034 (Education)
Comment by: Eric Riggleman on January 19, 2026 19:26
I do not agree with this bill. Separation of church and state.  Not all students are Christians so this seems like it is forcing one religion upon ALL students.
2026 Regular Session HB4500 (Finance)
Comment by: Erin Robinson on January 19, 2026 19:11
Hello, As a lifelong resident of Berkeley county, I am honestly disappointed. The residents of South Berkeley, mostly Tabler Estates, where this new sports plex is being planned is not supported. The 256 acres currently house wildlife, cows and other native species. This area backs up to multiple subdivisions and will infringe our mountain views and values. Many people move here for the quiet neighborhood which would change the entire dynamic. We also have the MRB, this can cause increased traffic/distraction for airplanes with the light or pollution. there are lots of other sport plex locations within 30-45 minutes from Martinsburg/south Berkeley. thank you for taking the time to listen to my concerns, Erin Robinson
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Susan Klingensmith on January 19, 2026 19:04
I OPPPOSE HB 4433. The amount of misogyny and xenophobia in this bill is staggering.  Women and children are overwhelmingly the victims of human trafficking. Whether or not a victim of this crime is an undocumented immigrant or not should not matter. This legislature should be focusing on the issue of ending human trafficking instead of criminalizing asking for help.
2026 Regular Session HB4122 (Public Education)
Comment by: Devin Spinks on January 19, 2026 18:57
How is this being funded? Schools are already fighting for resources and cameras are expensive.
2026 Regular Session HB4070 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Amanda B on January 19, 2026 18:56
I oppose this bill.
2026 Regular Session HB4034 (Education)
Comment by: Amanda Berg on January 19, 2026 18:46
I oppose this bill. Putting up a poster doesn’t change the culture of a school. Showing the kids and staff they are supported, fed, and important to our state.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Lisa Swanson on January 19, 2026 18:35
Do I understand correctly that you think that there should be no protections from sex trafficking? Are you kidding?
2026 Regular Session HB4017 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Sara M on January 19, 2026 18:33
Faith based child welfare services put more children at risk to be abused and sexually assaulted. Many religions focus on corporal physical punishment for children, instead of teaching them proper behavior. These organizations also focus on prospective adoptive parents, rather than reunification.
2026 Regular Session HB4069 (Finance)
Comment by: Jedediah F. Smith on January 19, 2026 18:23
I strongly oppose House Bill 4069, which would remove the current requirement that motorcycle riders and passengers wear helmets and shatter-resistant eye protection.Motorcycle helmets and eye protection aren’t optional accessories — they are proven lifesaving equipment. Decades of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and other traffic safety organizations show that helmets reduce the risk of death in a crash by about 37% and significantly reduce the severity of head injuries. Eye protection prevents debris from blinding riders, which is critical given the high speeds and unpredictable road conditions motorcycles face every day.Removing these basic safety requirements shifts risk from individual riders to all of us. When riders are injured or killed, the consequences are felt widely: • Increased medical costs — Traumatic brain injuries require long-term care, rehabilitation, and in many cases lifelong support. These costs often fall on families, private insurers, and state Medicaid programs.• Higher insurance premiums — More severe injuries mean more expensive claims. That cost is passed on to all drivers through higher auto and health insurance rates.• Strain on emergency responders and hospitals — Severe motorcycle crashes require significant emergency resources, which can divert capacity from other critical needs.The argument that helmet laws infringe on personal freedom ignores the external costs when preventable injuries affect families, employers, emergency services, and taxpayers. Freedom is real only when personal choices do not impose undue harm on others — and the data clearly show that helmet laws protect the public as well as the rider.Furthermore, eye protection isn’t a minor detail. Without it, riders risk impaired vision from wind, dust, insects, and flying gravel — hazards that can easily cause a crash even without significant traffic involvement.West Virginia already struggles with high rates of traffic fatalities. Repealing a law that demonstrably saves lives would be a step in the wrong direction. Instead of rolling back safety standards, we should be investing in education, rider training, and community programs that reduce injuries and deaths on our roads.For the health of our citizens, the sustainability of our health care system, and the safety of our communities, I urge you to vote against House Bill 4069.Respectfully, Jedediah Smith Crawley, West Virginia
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Christine Beecher on January 19, 2026 18:07
Stand up, for human rights, ALL HUMANS. You’re not pro life if you’re not pro every life. West Va needs compassion, acceptance and equality, NOT HB4433. please vote against this bill. Save human rights for all humans! christine Beecher
2026 Regular Session HB4122 (Public Education)
Comment by: Christy Black on January 19, 2026 17:54
This is a wonderful bill that would not only keep children safe, but also staff safe.
2026 Regular Session HB4509 (Energy and Public Works)
Comment by: Rikki on January 19, 2026 17:47
These centers are in no way beneficial to WV citizens. The jobs they promise to provide are temporary at best, will likely be contracted out for construction, and then run by computer systems. They will deplete natural resources, contaminate water and air quality, and likely add cost to our already rising utility bills all while adding money and tax cuts to billion dollar companies. Say NO to data centers!
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: John Cline on January 19, 2026 17:17
To Members of the WV Legislature, Regarding HR 4403 pertaining to the treatment of people without citizenship, I believe we should be careful not to pass legislation that could be used to incarcerate or punish people who perform "Christian acts" of kindness for people who are in need but might not be U.S. citizens.  I do not believe the Bible allows us to ignore people who are hungry or homeless. Respectfully, John Cline (Piney View, WV)
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Carol A Wood on January 19, 2026 17:03
I oppose HB 4433
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Alivia on January 19, 2026 16:59
I think this bill it’s disgusting. People are LITERALLY living like Anne frank. If you do NOT see the resemblance then you are out of your mind. People are being killed, beaten and ripped apart from their families. This is inhumane!! Same with the holocaust people were killed, beat, and ripped from their families. If you think that it’s okay for that to happen then you are sick. This bill just shows how much you don't care about your state. Everyone should feel safe in their own home and car. They can’t even do that bc they might be charged with “trafficking” that’s really sick.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Elizabeth Maravilla on January 19, 2026 16:53
I don’t believe this bill is very appropriate at all. Why would anyone try to stop helping another human being in their time of need no matter where they have came from. Why would one not be able to obtain help for their suffering if someone did evil to them juat because they’re undocumented. This is absolutely horrifying.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Nevaeh Olivares on January 19, 2026 16:47
This bill is extremely discriminatory and goes against our constitution. I vote NO for this bill.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Tyler Morgan on January 19, 2026 16:41
This is one of the worst atrocities to ever happen to the United States of America. This Presidency, attacking minorities, making people criminals for helping their neighbors. Its dehumanizing. Its immoral. Its sickening. I hope all of you authoritarians are removed from office.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: MEREDITH PEARCE on January 19, 2026 16:41
I AM AGAINST THIS BILL BECAUSE IT NEEDS TO OFFER REPARATIONS TO THE VICTIM IF THE CRIME WAS COMMITTED IN WV. IF THE CRIMINAL CAN PAY THE VICTIM THAT IS BEST; OTHERWISE OUR STATE SHOULD DO SO.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Illeana Olivares on January 19, 2026 16:33
This is against my Christian religious beliefs. This is cruel, we should be able to help one another like giving someone a ride to the doctor or to the store or even to CHURCH.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Sara Thomsen on January 19, 2026 16:19

HB 4433 raises serious concerns about cost and liability for our state and local governments. Expanding enforcement roles usually means higher expenses, more lawsuits, and more risk for taxpayers.

West Virginia already has real needs like schools, healthcare, infrastructure. We shouldn’t be pouring money into policies that create legal exposure instead of real solutions.

For these reasons, I strongly oppose HB 4433.

2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Haley Waugh on January 19, 2026 16:02
  I oppose HB 4433 because it weakens trust between communities and local government. When people are afraid to report crimes, ask for help, or use public services, everyone loses. West Virginia is stronger when families feel safe showing up for their communities, no matter their immigration status. This bill does the opposite by creating fear instead of safety. Public policy should bring people together, not push them apart. I urge lawmakers to oppose HB 4433. West Virginia already has real needs like schools, healthcare, infrastructure. We shouldn’t be pouring money into policies that create legal exposure instead of real solutions. West Virginians value fairness, accountability, and limits on government overreach. This bill doesn’t align with those values. Lawmakers should reject HB 4433 and uphold the civil liberties of everyone who calls West Virginia home. I oppose HB 4433 because it goes against values many West Virginians share. It goes against our dignity, fairness, and compassion.  
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Sarah Williams on January 19, 2026 16:01
I’m very concerned that not  allowing everyone who is trafficked to seek justice , will result in traffickers of all people to expand.     We should be after the people doing these atrocities, not focused on if the victims are “worth it”.
2026 Regular Session HB4449 (Education)
Comment by: Donna Snyder on January 19, 2026 15:55
There are existing issues with the Special Education camera law that this was copied from. Legislation will be presented to change that law very soon and I would urge that this not be passed as it is currently written.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: John W. Doyle on January 19, 2026 15:49
Having read the online text of HB 4433, I must caution you to consider that the agents of the federal ICE and CBP are the most conspicuous violators of the West Virginia and U. S. Constitutions by their behavior in our state. In any just society, they would be the first to be arrested and convicted for their usual M. O., seizing and transporting people without warrant or probable cause of crime committed, ethnic cleansing and mercenary rampages. Our WV Constitution goes beyond the federal one, demanding not only equal protection  of the law for all person, but including judgement by a jury of peers, before any such actions as the current deportation industry is practicing are pursued. Over the last several months I have petitioned the Kanawha County Commission, the Governor, the Mayor of Charleston and CWV Chief of Police, to inform me by what authority do these entities cooperate with the federal round-ups. The WV Constitution warns against incursions upon rights reserved to the states, especially police powers. I recommend the WV Constitution to you for the purpose of bringing these federal paramilitary Trump Troops to justice. They are the obvious perpetrators of the criminal activity HB 4433 seeks to ban. What are the references in state law that allow government officials to subjugate our state and county police forces to this new Gestapo, in ignorance or violation of our constitution? This is a perversion of law, so twisted that it does nothing but provide cover for the accelerating progress of tyranny. Shame on all of us who would consider such a scheme. I have done what I can to help immigrants and citizens and I will continue to do so. I know our constitution is only a set of ideals, but the laws are supposed to support it, not trivialize it. Basic human decency is a law above the authority of civil law. Without it there will only be more division and anarchy, exploited by our dictatorial president.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Kit McGinnis on January 19, 2026 15:15
This is a terrible and unconstitutional bill for many reasons. Please oppose HB 4433 1) I oppose HB 4433 because it weakens trust between communities and local government. When people are afraid to report crimes, ask for help, or use public services, everyone loses. West Virginia is stronger when families feel safe showing up for their communities, no matter their immigration status. This bill does the opposite by creating fear instead of safety. Public policy should bring people together, not push them apart. I urge lawmakers to oppose HB 4433. 2) HB 4433 raises serious concerns about cost and liability for our state and local governments. Expanding enforcement roles usually means higher expenses, more lawsuits, and more risk for taxpayers. West Virginia already has real needs like schools, healthcare, infrastructure. We shouldn’t be pouring money into policies that create legal exposure instead of real solutions. For these reasons, I strongly oppose HB 4433. 3) I oppose HB 4433 because it raises real concerns about due process and constitutional rights. Expanding enforcement power without strong oversight puts fundamental freedoms at risk. West Virginians value fairness, accountability, and limits on government overreach. This bill doesn’t align with those values. Lawmakers should reject HB 4433 and uphold the civil liberties of everyone who calls West Virginia home. 4) As a West Virginian, I care about the safety and stability of my community. HB 4433 would create fear and uncertainty for families who live, work, and contribute here every day. Punitive, surveillance based policies don’t solve complex issues. They erode trust and make communities weaker, not stronger. Please oppose HB 4433 and support solutions that actually bring people together. 5) I oppose HB 4433 because it goes against values many West Virginians share. It goes against our dignity, fairness, and compassion. Our laws should protect families, respect human rights, and build community trust. This bill does none of those things. I urge lawmakers to reject HB 4433 and pursue policies that reflect our shared values. 6) This bill is unnecessary and out of touch with the real issues West Virginians are facing. HB 4433 doesn’t address affordability, healthcare, or community safety and it creates more problems instead. Lawmakers should focus on real solutions, not policies that divide communities and waste time and resources. I strongly oppose HB 4433. 7) HB 4433 will restrict the ability of faith congregations to assist marginalized people.  Giving transportation and assistance to marginalized people is our responsibility as faith practitioners, regardless of someone's legal status.  Please do not criminalize charitable works.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Preston on January 19, 2026 15:05
Get your heads out of your asses. This is the dumbest shit I’ve ever heard of. How about focusing on protecting children and getting prices of groceries brought down!
2026 Regular Session HB4005 (Government Organization)
Comment by: Lida Shepherd on January 19, 2026 14:37
While I am in full support of apprenticeship programs, and applaud efforts to expand them, I do not believe the interests of our young people would be served by the weakening of child labor laws as this legislation contemplates.  West Virginia has a long long history of strong child labor laws, dating back to 1919.  Let's not rollback these protections for our kids. Bills like HB 4005 that weaken child labor laws is part of a coordinated national effort, supported by out-of-state deep pocketed interests, to undermine worker rights, concentrate corporate power, and weaken government's role of protecting public safety and the most vulnerable. West Virginia lawmakers have the power to stop these multi-state efforts to allow businesses to profit on the backs of children, even in the most dangerous jobs.
2026 Regular Session HB4135 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Daniel Farmer on January 19, 2026 14:28
Last time I checked…you had to have probable cause to go through a person’s cell phone. You can’t create exceptions because of what someone DID in the past or what they MIGHT do in the future.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Scott Miller on January 19, 2026 14:23
I just read that this bill will make it a crime to help undocumented people.  I thought this country was founded on some principles regarding helping everyone out.  Give us your tired your poor, your wretched refuse from your teaming shores and all that.  As many of the members of this body are deeply religious, I don't see how this is what Jesus would recommend. Help one another,  Jesus never asked for documentation.  There are people right now who are scared, don't know what to do and need help.  99+ percent of them are good people, trying to live life, provide for their family and dream that their children will have a better life.  Those of us in the community who care about PEOPLE, have no interest in helping human traffickers, so this bill (in regards to making it a criminal activity to aid any undocumented person) is meaningless.  For those who would aid human trafickers it is also meaningly, because they don't care about the law and are likely to help them anyway.   For thirteen years I ran a child advocacy center and learned a little about child trafficking, and none of it is good.  It seems to me it would already be a crime to help someone in their criminal activity whether they were documented or not, so really all this bill in regard to criminalizing helping undocumented people,  is to truly hurt the people the government has always said we wanted to help.  Please think about this.  Thank you
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Aj schwartz on January 19, 2026 14:21
For you to even consider not taking stories from victims because they don’t have the “correct” paperwork is horrendous, these people are just that, people. HUMANS. Just like you, skin, bone and blood. If you were attacked and taken from everything you know and love, then the government told you, your story doesn’t matter. I couldn’t even imagine. You are more willing to protect the pedos and rapist in this country than the vulnerable, it shows. The trust in the system goes down day by day because of bills like this.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Cecelia Thompson on January 19, 2026 14:04

To the Members of the House Judiciary Committee,

I am writing to voice my strong opposition to HB 4433. This bill is a direct attack on vulnerable people and a complete distraction from the real issues our state is facing.

I find it shameful that while we were promised a session focused on jobs and the cost of living, the committee is instead spending time on a bill that protects human traffickers. By blocking undocumented victims from seeking restitution, you are essentially telling traffickers that they can exploit people with zero financial consequences. Restitution isn't a "perk"—it is a basic requirement of justice.

Furthermore, the attempt to criminalize anyone who helps an undocumented person is dangerous. We should be encouraging people to look out for their neighbors, not threatening them with harsh sentences for basic acts of humanity. This kind of fear-mongering doesn't make our communities safer; it just makes them more divided.

Please stop targeting vulnerable people to score political points. I urge you to vote NO on HB 4433 and get back to the work you actually promised to do for our economy and our families.

2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Brian Allen on January 19, 2026 14:01
Why would the state want to prevent illegal immigrants from receiving restitution for being trafficked? If someone is trafficked, it seems very likely that they were smuggled into the country and should have some recourse to recover the means to return to their home. Besides, it reads as if the victim sues for restitution from the perpetrator, not the state, so why would the state prevent that from occurring? Exempting illegal immigrants would most likely make them more of a target for trafficking. Regardless of their immigration status, they shouldn't be subject to additional exploitation.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Christina Baisden on January 19, 2026 13:50

Anyone who is a victim of human trafficking in this country deserves recourse and justice regardless of citizenship! How cruel to think otherwise.

If they are a victim of human trafficking then why wouid we treat the situation as if they came here of their own free will? As if THEY were the problem? That is something I want each of you to think about.....
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Gerald Beller on January 19, 2026 13:34
This bill makes it illegal to help people in dangerous and difficult circumstances that ha ve nothing to do with their ,legal status.  Victims of traffickers who are in danger need and require help, not further assault on those who do help them. This law would make it much harder to prevent harm traffickers expose on their victims. There's a reason that we are enjoined to follow the lead of the Good Samaritan, not those who create victimize those he tries to help.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: William Wolfe on January 19, 2026 13:33
“When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the LORD your God." -Leviticus 19:33-34 This bill turns justice on its head by ensuring that VICTIMS of human trafficking cannot seek restitution if they are undocumented. It also makes empathy into a crime by punishing people who are trying to follow the word of God and help their neighbors. Vote no on this cruel, disgusting bill.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Kim on January 19, 2026 13:24
What in Gods name is wrong with you people??? You ever considered that trafficked humans are here against their will??? Are you so bigoted that you don’t care about someone being raped over and over because they aren’t from here? Or they are brown? Y’all make me sick. Do something to help the people of WV!
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Christy Cardwell on January 19, 2026 13:22
I beg of you to reconsider this patently unAmerican bill. We are a nation built on immigration. This bill does nothing to solve any problems. It hurts innocent victims of human trafficking. It punishes people for coming here to make a better life for their families. It punishes people for working hard to contribute to our society. I realize we need immigration reform, but this is NOT the way to do it.
2026 Regular Session HB4549 (Government Organization)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 13:22
HB 4549 assumes that awarding public construction contracts to the “lowest responsible bidder,” combined with the option for project labor agreements, will protect public safety and economic outcomes. However, recent infrastructure and environmental rollbacks have weakened oversight mechanisms that traditionally define what “responsible” means in practice. Without strong, enforceable safety, environmental, and labor oversight, lowest-bid contracting risks prioritizing cost over long-term safety, quality, and community impact. West Virginia law recognizes the state’s duty to protect public health, safety, and welfare (W. Va. Code § 16-1-1), yet reduced regulatory enforcement and limited ethics investigations undermine confidence that contractors will be adequately monitored. If oversight and accountability are insufficient, there is no guarantee that these projects will be safe, that jobs will be sustainable for the local workforce, or that economic benefits will remain in the state. Public procurement policy should ensure not only competitive pricing, but meaningful enforcement, transparency, and ethical accountability to protect workers, communities, and taxpayers.
2026 Regular Session HB4543 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 13:17
HB 4543 raises serious concerns about enforceability, consistency, and equal application of the law. Current practice already shows that harassment and stalking are often dismissed as protected speech unless physical contact occurs, due to limited enforcement capacity and oversight. Before creating expanded residency restrictions for people convicted of harassment or stalking of minors, the Legislature should address whether law enforcement has the resources, training, and oversight mechanisms to monitor compliance in a fair and constitutional manner. Creating broad residency prohibitions without clear enforcement standards risks selective or uneven application and raises due-process concerns under Article III, § 10 of the West Virginia Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment. Laws that are not realistically enforceable or that rely on discretionary surveillance risk creating de facto subclasses of people subject to heightened monitoring without adequate safeguards. Public safety policy should be evidence-based, enforceable, and applied uniformly—not symbolic measures that cannot be consistently carried out.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: PISOS LAMINADOS on January 19, 2026 13:17
IF YOU WANT TO CORRECT THE IDEOLOGY OF THE PIG AND THE MENTALITY OF THE SLAVE CATCHER, YOU MEET THEM WITH EQUAL FORCE. ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE. NO POWER TO THE PIG.
2026 Regular Session HB4335 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Lisa King Leach on January 19, 2026 13:16

I am writing to urge your support for legislation that modernizes and improves provider credentialing processes with health insurance payors.

Inefficient and inconsistent credentialing creates unnecessary delays in patient access to care, administrative burden for providers, and higher system-wide costs. Providers often wait months to become credentialed or re-credentialed, even when their qualifications are unchanged, preventing patients from receiving timely services and discouraging participation in insurance networks.

Legislation that streamlines credentialing - such as standardizing credentialing requirements, setting enforceable timelines, and reducing administrative burdens - would improve access to care. These reforms would especially benefit underserved communities, where provider shortages are already acute.

I respectfully ask you to support policies that promote a more efficient, consistent, and provider-friendly credentialing system. Doing so will help ensure patients receive timely care and allow clinicians to focus on what matters most: delivering high-quality healthcare.

Thank you for your leadership and consideration.   Lisa King Leach, MBA, CEO Southern West Virginia Health System (Community Health Center serving 7 WV counties)
2026 Regular Session HB4540 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 13:11
I support HB 4540’s requirement that the Division of Motor Vehicles provide written notice of all fees owed and impending suspension at least 30 days before a driver’s license is suspended for failure to respond or appear in court. Losing a license without clear notice can force people to lose access to employment, groceries, medical care, and other basic needs in a state with limited public transit. Access to reliable transportation affects food and water security, economic stability, and public safety. Procedural fairness before suspension better aligns with due-process principles under the West Virginia Constitution (Art. III, § 10) and helps prevent avoidable hardship.
2026 Regular Session HB4538 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Jayli FLynn on January 19, 2026 13:08
HB 4538 — Public Comment: I support efforts to protect privacy and due process in automated traffic enforcement, but HB 4538 as written raises concerns about uneven enforcement and technology use that could still result in citations mailed to motorists without a real-time stop or meaningful interaction. The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable government searches and seizures, and strict standards are necessary to ensure automated systems do not become de facto revenue tools without individualized probable cause. Evidence used must be reliable, transparent, and subject to independent verification. Technology should assist public safety, not replace fundamental safeguards. Requiring law-enforcement officer presence and clear signage where cameras are used — and prohibiting unattended automated enforcement outside work zones — better aligns enforcement with constitutional protection of motorists’ rights.
2026 Regular Session HB4524 (Government Organization)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 13:03
HB 4524, which prohibits the State of West Virginia from contracting with companies that boycott Israel, raises serious constitutional, economic, and civil-rights concerns that extend far beyond foreign policy. Conditioning public employment, contracting, or economic participation on political or ideological positions constitutes compelled speech and viewpoint discrimination, implicating the First Amendment’s protections for free speech, free exercise of religion, and association (U.S. Const. amend. I; W. Va. Const. art. III, §§ 7, 15). Anti-BDS provisions also create due-process and equal-protection concerns under Article III, § 10 of the West Virginia Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment by enabling vague, overbroad, and discretionary enforcement. Individuals and businesses may face penalties or exclusion not for unlawful conduct, but for perceived political beliefs, religious expression, or cultural identity. This invites religious profiling and xenophobia, particularly against Muslim, Arab, and minority communities whose attire or advocacy may be mischaracterized as political opposition. Courts in multiple states have enjoined or struck down similar anti-BDS contracting laws as unconstitutional, creating foreseeable litigation risk, legal costs, and taxpayer liability. West Virginia should not adopt policies that expose the state to lawsuits and damages while restricting lawful expression on issues such as peace advocacy, environmental protection, LGBTQ rights, reproductive rights, or foreign policy. Beyond constitutional harm, HB 4524 undermines the state’s economic interests. By imposing ideological barriers on contracting, the bill reduces the pool of eligible businesses, discourages investment, and deters companies from operating in West Virginia. This conflicts with the state’s declared economic-development policy to attract business, promote commerce, and grow revenue (W. Va. Code § 5B-2-1). Fewer contractors mean less competition, higher costs, reduced innovation, and ultimately less funding for public services. Public contracting policy should be neutral, transparent, and based on merit and performance—not political conformity. HB 4524 risks chilling protected speech, eroding public trust, harming economic growth, enabling discriminatory enforcement, and shifting the financial burden of unconstitutional legislation onto taxpayers. For these reasons, this bill should be reconsidered.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Dana Light on January 19, 2026 12:58
I oppose HB 4433 because it weakens trust between communities and local government. When people are afraid to report crimes, ask for help, or use public services, everyone loses.
West Virginia is stronger when families feel safe showing up for their communities, no matter their immigration status. This bill does the opposite by creating fear instead of safety.
Public policy should bring people together, not push them apart. I urge lawmakers to oppose HB 4433.
2026 Regular Session HB4516 (Government Organization)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:53
HB 4516 raises concerns about eroding public trust, accountability, and transparency in government decision-making. Preventing state agencies or political subdivisions from using public funds to challenge state laws limits oversight and weakens the checks and balances that protect taxpayers. West Virginia law emphasizes transparency and accountability in the use of public funds (W. Va. Code §§ 4-2-4; 12-4-14), and due-process principles require meaningful avenues to address conflicts between state law, constitutional obligations, and federal requirements (W. Va. Const. art. III, § 10; U.S. Const. amend. XIV). Restricting lawful challenges risks shielding flawed policies from review and undermines public confidence in government commitments to openness and responsible governance.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Cindy L Jaworski on January 19, 2026 12:49
This bill is a thin disguise for discriminating against immigrants. Find a better process for helping to curb human trafficking.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Frank Muth on January 19, 2026 12:49
HB 4433 is a disaster in the making. We already have situations where undocumented people are being kidnapped by unidentified masked people without due process and often under violent conditions.  HB4433 will create more fear and community distrust, both amoungst the undocumented and the documented residents of our state. Undocumented residents have been abducted when they show up for their court appointments while they are in the process of obtaining legal documentation.  Often, documented members of the community assist them with transportation to their appointments.  HB4433 will criminalize people who are simply acting in the time honoured West Virginia way of helping our neighbours. That will spread even further, as most of us don't have any idea who in our communities are documented residents and who are not. Are we now supposed to ask our neighbours for their papers before we lend a helping hand? Absurd bills like this ill-informed and reactionary attempt at legislation are costly in terms of enforcement and in terms of resultant lawsuits.  HB4433 does nothing to help West Virginians and will cripple us even further in terms of cost and community trauma. Kill this disastrous bill immediately.
2026 Regular Session HB4514 (Finance)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:47
HB 4514 raises concerns about unequal service and retirement standards across public safety and emergency services. When some positions are eligible for benefits, incentives, or retirement credit after significantly shorter service periods than EMS and other essential responders, it creates inequities and incentives for system abuse. West Virginia law requires responsible stewardship of public funds and uniform accountability (W. Va. Code §§ 4-2-4; 12-4-14). Preferential treatment that allows individuals to accrue benefits with minimal service undermines workforce stability and public trust, and raises due-process and equal-protection concerns under Article III, § 10 of the West Virginia Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment. Public benefit systems should be fair, consistent, and proportional across comparable public service roles.
2026 Regular Session HB4513 (Finance)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:45
HB 4513 raises concerns about expanding financial incentives where substantial funding and incentive structures already exist, without clear evidence of improved public outcomes. West Virginia law requires transparency, accountability, and auditing in the use of public funds (W. Va. Code §§ 4-2-4; 12-4-14). Continuing to direct additional money toward incentive-based systems risks prioritizing statistics or revenue generation over community needs, while many West Virginians struggle with basic services and affordability. Public spending decisions must be rational, proportionate, and applied uniformly to meet due-process standards under Article III, § 10 of the West Virginia Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Nancy Pennington Tissue on January 19, 2026 12:44
Please do not act on this bill.  It is INHUMANE  to refuse help for any woman or girl or young boy caught up in sex trafficking REGARDLESS of their color, nationality, or immigration status.  Would you refuse the very help you would expect for your own daughter or granddaughter or that of a neighbor to one dragged out of her own country to service people (unfortunately white American men fall into this category).  These aare the aliens Jesus said for us to protect AND welcome!!  Tell Elliot Pritt we in Fayette County are particularly watching him!
2026 Regular Session HB4511 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:43
HB 4511 raises serious concerns about conditioning parental rights or status on the use of lawful medical treatments, including medications prescribed for serious health conditions or substance-use recovery. West Virginia law recognizes public health and medical treatment as matters of state responsibility (W. Va. Code § 16-1-1), and state medical cannabis law permits the lawful use of cannabis for qualifying patients. Policies that treat lawful medical care or participation in recovery as grounds to deny parental status risk punishing illness rather than protecting children. Family integrity is a protected liberty interest, and government action affecting parental rights must meet due-process standards under Article III, § 10 of the West Virginia Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment. Child welfare policy should support treatment, recovery, and reunification—not create barriers that permanently separate families based on medical status.
2026 Regular Session HB4510 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:41
Public health and safety are legitimate state concerns, but it is notable that no public health emergency has been declared for longstanding infrastructure failures or ongoing water contamination issues affecting West Virginians. State law recognizes protection of public health as a core responsibility (W. Va. Code § 16-1-1), which requires evidence-based prioritization of risks. Focusing legislative action on vaccine skepticism while persistent environmental and infrastructure hazards remain unaddressed raises concerns about arbitrary policymaking and misallocation of public resources. Health policy should be grounded in science, transparency, and proportional response to documented risks, consistent with due-process requirements under Article III, § 10 of the West Virginia Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment.
2026 Regular Session HB4060 (Finance)
Comment by: Kaitlyn Shriver on January 19, 2026 12:41
I do not support HB 4060. This is a wasteful bill that is not worth legislative time. Market behaviors control whether a business decides to accept cash vs. credit/debit. This is an unnecessary governmental attempt to control natural market forces and economic development with no clear legislative purpose or outcome. There is no economic benefit to requiring the acceptance of cash and there is no indication that this problem is serious enough to require legislative intervention.
2026 Regular Session HB4508 (Energy and Public Works)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:38
HB 4508 raises concerns that creating an Economic and Community Development Task Force, by itself, does not ensure public safety, accountability, or equitable outcomes. West Virginia law recognizes that public health, safety, and welfare are core state responsibilities (W. Va. Code § 16-1-1), yet recent deregulatory approaches have already reduced oversight capacity. Without enforceable standards, transparent criteria, and meaningful public participation, a task force risks allowing the state to define “success” in ways that favor select projects or stakeholders rather than the lived realities of all constituents. Government action affecting economic development must be applied uniformly and with due process (W. Va. Const. art. III, § 10; U.S. Const. amend. XIV), not through discretionary selection that can obscure safety risks or unequal impacts.
2026 Regular Session HB4507 (Finance)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:35
HB 4507 raises concerns about shifting healthcare and emergency service costs onto residents while expanding access or advantages for insurers and related entities. West Virginia has already seen reductions in ambulance and EMS availability, which increases downstream costs for hospitals, insurers, and patients alike. State policy recognizes healthcare and emergency services as essential to public welfare (W. Va. Code § 16-1-1), yet cost-shifting measures that favor certain market participants risk undermining access and affordability for those who already pay into the system. Policies that disproportionately burden residents while benefiting select entities raise due-process and equal-protection concerns under Article III, § 10 of the West Virginia Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment. Healthcare policy should stabilize EMS services and protect patients, not create inequities in who bears the cost.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Sarah Reggi on January 19, 2026 12:32
We should not prevent VICTIMS of human trafficking from seeking restitution. I’m appalled that this bill has been created and that our legislators are waisting their precious time on it when we have a real opportunity to do introduce and discuss bills that would be much more meaningful for the everyday West Virginian.
2026 Regular Session HB4506 (Finance)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:32
HB 4506 raises concerns about prioritizing additional financial incentives for law enforcement without corresponding oversight, transparency, or demonstrated public-safety outcomes. West Virginia law already requires accountability for the use of public funds, including audit and reporting obligations (W. Va. Code §§ 4-2-4; 12-4-14). Past whistleblower disclosures and disaster-response reporting have raised questions about the allocation of funds toward overtime and incentives while residents struggled to access recovery assistance. Expanding incentives without strengthened oversight risks shifting resources away from essential public services and raises due-process and equal-protection concerns under Article III, § 10 of the West Virginia Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment. Public safety funding should be balanced, transparent, and accountable to all taxpayers.
2026 Regular Session HB4504 (Government Organization)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:29
HB 4504 would expand exemptions from hunting and fishing license requirements for certain residents and landowners. I support access to outdoor traditions, but any change in licensing should be paired with continued strong wildlife management and conservation funding, as hunting seasons, bag limits, and population goals are set by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Policies that change who pays for licenses should ensure they do not undermine conservation efforts that protect wildlife and sustainable harvest opportunities for all West Virginians.
2026 Regular Session HB4503 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:26
HB 4503 raises concerns about discretionary and selective traffic enforcement rather than uniform safety standards. West Virginia law already governs lane use, speed, and the duty to move over for emergency vehicles (W. Va. Code §§ 17C-6-1 et seq.; 17C-14-15). When drivers traveling at the lawful speed are treated as obstructing traffic while others exceed speed limits, enforcement becomes inconsistent and invites selective stops. Laws that rely on broad officer discretion risk being used for statistics or revenue rather than public safety, raising due-process concerns under Article III, § 10 of the West Virginia Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment. Traffic policy should reduce discretion, increase predictability, and prioritize safety—especially in a state with an aging population and limited pedestrian infrastructure.
2026 Regular Session HB4413 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Rhoades, Mara on January 19, 2026 12:22
West Virginia leads the nation in overdose deaths and infectious disease outbreaks, yet this bill seeks to dismantle the only evidence-based tool we have to stop the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C. Criminalizing syringe exchanges, this legislature is effectively choosing to spend millions of taxpayer dollars on lifelong medical treatment for preventable infections rather than pennies on clean needles. We cannot ignore that Charleston and Huntington have already faced CDC-warned "HIV outbreaks" that mirror the third world; passing this bill is an invitation for those clusters to become a statewide epidemic. Furthermore, this bill endangers our police and first responders by forcing contaminated needles back into the shadows and onto our streets, increasing the risk of accidental needle sticks during searches. Harm reduction is not enabling addiction; it is the only bridge that keeps a person alive long enough to enter the very treatment programs this bill claims to support. You cannot rehabilitate a corpse, and you cannot protect public health by outlawing the tools that preserve it. If this bill passes, the resulting surge in deaths and healthcare costs will be the direct legacy of this committee.
2026 Regular Session HB4449 (Education)
Comment by: Cheyenne on January 19, 2026 12:21
This bill would help protect our students and also the teachers from inappropriate behaviors and allegations. We have had so many news headlines lately of teachers being arrested for abuse and sexual misconduct this would be a deterrent for those behaviors as they could be held accountable for their actions much sooner before extended periods of time and abuse happen.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Jasper Larson on January 19, 2026 12:21
This bill is disgusting use of government time for the purpose of silencing victims. Our government should be protecting people not making their lives harder and harder with every new bill pushed through.
2026 Regular Session HB4497 (Education)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:21
HB 4497 raises serious concerns about restricting access to education based on a single test outcome. The West Virginia Constitution guarantees a thorough and efficient system of free schools and places education at the center of the state’s public responsibility (W. Va. Const. art. XII, § 1). Denying student aid because an individual does not pass a specific exam risks excluding people with learning differences, disabilities, or unequal educational access, rather than improving workforce readiness. Policies that arbitrarily block access to education undermine due-process and equal-protection principles under Article III, § 10 of the West Virginia Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment, and work against long-term economic productivity and revenue growth that depend on inclusive education opportunities.
2026 Regular Session HB4495 (Health and Human Resources)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:17
I am concerned that HB 4495 risks treating people with substance-use and other medical conditions as revenue sources rather than prioritizing recovery and reintegration. West Virginia law recognizes public health as a core state responsibility (W. Va. Code § 16-1-1), yet prior failures to adequately regulate sober living homes while allowing them to receive funding demonstrate a lack of oversight and accountability inconsistent with the Grant Transparency and Accountability Act (W. Va. Code § 12-4-14) and audit requirements under W. Va. Code § 4-2-4. Policies that stigmatize medical conditions and invite discretionary enforcement raise due-process concerns under Article III, § 10 of the West Virginia Constitution and the Fourteenth Amendment, and do not set individuals or communities up for long-term success.
2026 Regular Session HB4492 (Government Organization)
Comment by: jayli flynn on January 19, 2026 12:14
I am concerned that HB 4492 regulates private housing transactions without addressing housing supply, infrastructure, or access. West Virginia law already recognizes affordable housing as a public responsibility (W. Va. Code § 5-26-1), yet this bill shifts the burden onto private property owners rather than investing in development or basic infrastructure. Broad regulation of private property raises due process and takings concerns under Article III, §§ 9–10 of the West Virginia Constitution when less restrictive alternatives exist.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Michaella Bowles on January 19, 2026 12:10
I oppose this bill. No one should continue to experience trauma and inhumanity all because of a legal status. They are not here by their own will to begin with and deserve humanity.
2026 Regular Session HB4453 (Education)
Comment by: Mara Rhoades on January 19, 2026 12:10
Gross. Forty five...FORTY FIVE years of experience and still can't crack 70k. No wonder WV continues to rank 48th to 49th in education. You want and require master level educators, but pay them pennies. But the judiciary branch and your salaries continue to increase.
2026 Regular Session HB4491 (Energy and Public Works)
Comment by: jayli flynn on January 19, 2026 12:09
Under W. Va. Code § 22-1-1, environmental and public health protection is expressly a state policy, and governmental decisions impacting the environment should be made with public participation. In addition, W. Va. Code § 12-4-14 and § 4-2-4 require transparency, monitoring, and audit reporting for public funds and agencies. HB 4491 should not weaken these statutory expectations for oversight, accountability, and public access to information.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Peggy Burkhardt on January 19, 2026 12:09
I OPPOSE  this bill as I believe it is my Christian and civic  duty to help neighbors in need regardless of their immigration status. This is the opposite of holding people accountable for engaging in the slave trade of human trafficking. This bill is would further stigmatize and harm our immigrant communities and those who care about them. It would also penalize people for living out Gospel values of welcoming the stranger and loving our neighbors as ourselves. Unless one is a Native American, our ancestors were all immigrants. Think about how you would have wanted your ancestors to be treated!
2026 Regular Session HB4485 (Education)
Comment by: Mara Rhoades on January 19, 2026 12:07
This is egregious; employees shouldn't have to rely on their coworkers to donate time to take care of and spend time with their newborn children. You want to force women to have children, but not provide them with adequate time off or pay to do it.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Kaitlyn Shriver on January 19, 2026 12:06
I oppose HB 4433. Criminalizing the “harboring and transportation” of persons with illegal work authorization is a dangerous and slippery slope akin to actions taken in WWII to try and revoke the constitutional protections of citizens and their ability to protect their neighbors from the revocation of their rights. This is a dangerous, irresponsible bill that ignores historical precedent and instead of serving to protect victims of true trafficking, actually prohibits the protection of these individuals and makes them more susceptible to the whims of criminal actors. To then also include a section of the bill that removes all possibility of a person’s ability to seek restitution for their treatment at the hands of a smuggler is cruel at best. West Virginia would be better served by legislators who actually serve its interests in clean water, improved infrastructure, and protections for small business. These nonsense bills that cater to national concerns rather than the concerns of this state are embarrassing and ill-suited. These are a waste of time and money. Trafficking is an important issue, but I’m concerned that professionals who understand trafficking may not have been consulted when structuring these changes. Can the legislators responsible for this bill reference any specific circumstances that suggest a need for this legislation? Has anyone with illegal work status ever even sued? This is a waste of our state funds and valuable time.
2026 Regular Session HB4488 (Finance)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:05
While lowering fuel costs may offer short-term relief, HB 4488 shifts the tax burden onto sales taxes, which disproportionately impact low-income residents, renters, and younger generations already struggling with inflation and rising living costs. This approach does not reduce the overall burden on West Virginians; it redistributes it in a way that risks worsening affordability for those least able to absorb it. Tax policy should provide real relief, not move costs from one pocket to another.
2026 Regular Session HB4486 (Government Organization)
Comment by: Jayli Flynn on January 19, 2026 12:02
I am concerned that HB 4486 risks encouraging racial profiling and discriminatory enforcement. Many individuals lawfully live and work in the United States under recognized statuses, including Compact of Free Association (COFA) nationals and members of sovereign First Nations, who do not require visas and may legally work, live, and serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. Legislation should be narrowly tailored to avoid repeating historical patterns where immigration enforcement was used to justify bias and harm against lawful communities.
2026 Regular Session HB4433 (Judiciary)
Comment by: Cynthia D Cole Fulton on January 19, 2026 12:00
As a West Virginian, I care about the safety and stability of my community. HB 4433 would create fear and uncertainty for families who live, work, and contribute here every day.
Punitive, surveillance based policies don’t solve complex issues. They erode trust and make communities weaker, not stronger.
Please oppose HB 4433 and support solutions that actually bring people together.