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West Virginia Legislature

1st Session of the 87th Legislature

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Member Press Release

Senate Calendar and Committee Schedule for Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Wednesday, February 12, 2025 – 1st Day of Session

The Senate will convene at noon. The State of the State address begins at 7 p.m. in the House Chamber.

THIRD READING

There are no bills on Third Reading for Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

SECOND READING

There are no bills on Second Reading for Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

FIRST READING

There are no bills on First Reading for Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

Scheduled Committee Meetings

1 p.m.: Select Committee on Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health (451M)

  • Organizational Motions
  • Presentation: Law Enforcement Statistics related to Substance Use Disorder in West Virginia – Jack Luikart, Director, West Virginia Fusion Center

2 p.m.: Public Hearing (House Finance – 460M)

  • Required Presentation on Federal Block Grants Funding to the Senate and House Finance Committees

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

Senate Bills to be Introduced Wednesday, February 12, 2025

  • SB 1: Requiring PSC to be clearinghouse for state road paving projects (Chapman; Transportation and Infrastructure then Government Organization)
  • SB 2: Designating Patriot Day as state holiday (Chapman; Finance)
  • SB 3: Modifying permissible expenditures by Water Development Authority from Infrastructure Fund (Oliverio; Finance)
  • SB 4: Prohibiting compensation when assisting persons apply for VA benefits in certain circumstances (Oliverio; Military then Finance)
  • SB 5: Authorizing Adopt-A-Road volunteer programs under jurisdiction of DOT (Maynard; Transportation and Infrastructure)
  • SB 6: Exempting life insurance cash value from Medicaid eligibility calculations (Oliverio, Barrett, Garcia, Phillips, Queen, Woodrum; Banking and Insurance then Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 7: Creating crime of desecration of deceased human body (Woodrum, Deeds; Judiciary)
  • SB 8: Providing additional sites and devices for newborn safe surrender (Thorne; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 9: Eliminating tax exemption of state-owned real property (FN) (Smith; Finance)
  • SB 10: Exempting certain meat processes from consumers sales and service tax (FN) (Smith; Agriculture then Finance)
  • SB 11: Orphan Oil and Gas Well Prevention Act (FN) (Smith; Energy, Industry and Mining then Finance)
  • SB 12: Requiring Department of Human Services to update long-term care and substance abuse treatment services in certain areas (FN) (Smith; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 13: Establishing residency requirements for candidates seeking nomination and election to US Congress (Smith; Judiciary)
  • SB 14: Relating to nonferrous metal sales and transportation to secondary recycler (FN) (Smith; Energy, Industry and Mining then Finance)
  • SB 15: Requiring Department of Human Services file petition to terminate parental rights under certain circumstances (Smith; Judiciary)
  • SB 16: Clarifying requirements for filing occupational pneumoconiosis claims (FN) (Smith; Banking and Insurance then Finance)
  • SB 17: Fetal Heartbeat Act (Smith; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
  • SB 18: Allowing county commissions to impose amusement tax (FN) (Smith; Government Organization then Finance)
  • SB 19: Providing civil and criminal immunity for use of force in defense of self, real and personal property (Smith; Judiciary)
  • SB 20: Requiring funding for increased costs to volunteer fire departments and EMS units (FN) (Smith; Government Organization then Finance)
  • SB 21: Assessing wildlife impact fee on wind power projects (FN) (Smith; Natural Resources then Finance)
  • SB 22: Applying penalties for nonpayment of royalties under terms of oil and natural gas leases (Smith; Energy, Industry and Mining)
  • SB 23: Creating Special Road Repair Fund (FN) (Smith; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
  • SB 24: Requiring certain probationers to participate in work release program and six months in work release center (Smith; Judiciary then Finance)
  • SB 25: Creating WV Coal Marketing Program (FN) (Smith; Energy, Industry and Mining then Finance)
  • SB 26: Authorizing proceeds and application of hotel occupancy tax to municipalities and county commissions (Smith; Economic Development then Government Organization)
  • SB 27: Clarifying felony of exhibiting obscene matter to minor (Chapman; Judiciary)
  • SB 28: Requiring insurance coverage of certain genetic testing without cost sharing (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 29: Allowing physicians assistants to own practice (Takubo; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 30: Requiring medically necessary care and treatment to address congenital anomalies associated with cleft lip and cleft palate (FN) (Woodrum; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 31: Relating to DNA data maintained for law-enforcement purposes (Oliverio; Judiciary then Finance)
  • SB 32: Uniform Antitrust Pre-Merger Notification Act (IB) (Oliverio; Judiciary)
  • SB 33: Establishing Public/Private Small Business Enhancement Program (Oliverio; Government Organization then Finance)
  • SB 34: Creating community solar pilot program (Oliverio; Energy, Industry and Mining then Finance)
  • SB 35: Permitting campus police officers to participate in Deputy Sheriffs Retirement System (FN) (Oliverio; Pensions then Finance)
  • SB 36: Clarifying requirements and compensation when assisting persons apply for VA benefits in certain circumstances (Oliverio; Military then Judiciary)
  • SB 37: Allowing Teachers Retirement System members to exchange unused leave for monetary compensation (FN) (Oliverio; Education then Finance)
  • SB 38: Uniform Unlawful Restriction in Land Records Act (Oliverio; Government Organization then Judiciary)
  • SB 39: Uniform Special Deposits Act (Banking and Insurance then Judiciary)
  • SB 40: Requiring doula services be covered and reimbursed by Medicaid and PEIA (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 41: Approving overtime pay for teachers (Taylor; Education then Finance)
  • SB 42: Reducing number of days required for certain educators to apply for full-time employment (Rucker; Education then Finance)
  • SB 43: Relating to administration of anesthetics (Rucker; Health and Human Resource then Finance)
  • SB 44: Modifying ratio of children at family child care facilities (Taylor; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 45: Relieving railroad companies of liability during parades under certain circumstances (Taylor; Judiciary)
  • SB 46: Allowing municipalities to complete work previously requested to DOH (Taylor; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
  • SB 47: Authorizing WVSSAC to promulgate legislative rules (Taylor; Education)
  • SB 48: Creating mobile training team for school safety (Taylor; Education then Judiciary)
  • SB 49: Prohibiting mandates for vaccines (Taylor; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 50: Requiring municipal elections to be held on same day as statewide elections (Taylor; Judiciary)
  • SB 51: Taylor Removing rape and incest exception to obtain abortion in WV (Taylor; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
  • SB 52: Relating to exemptions from excise taxes (FN) (Woodrum; Finance)
  • SB 53: Prohibiting schools from starting earlier than 7:45 am (Oliverio; Education)
  • SB 54: Requiring age-appropriate instruction on Holocaust in public schools (Oliverio; Education)
  • SB 55: Requiring DOH Commissioner to develop formula for allocating road funds among districts (FN) (Oliverio; Transportation and Insurance then Finance)
  • SB 56: Increasing Homestead Property Tax Exemption for homeowners (FN) (Oliverio; Finance)
  • SB 57: Establishing tax on production of electricity from wind and solar sources (FN) (Phillips; Energy, Industry and Mining then Finance)
  • SB 58: Permitting State Tax Division investigators carry concealed weapons (Phillips; Judiciary)
  • SB 59: Requiring user photo on EBT cards (Phillips; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 60: Establishing road or highway infrastructure improvement projects or coal production and processing facilities tax credit (FN) (Phillips; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
  • SB 61: Providing cost-of-living adjustment for certain PERS and State Teachers Retirement System retirees (FN) (Woelfel; Pensions then Finance)
  • SB 62: Requiring investigative and assessment services in relation to child welfare (Woelfel; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
  • SB 63: Authorizing restitution to victims of securities fraud (FN) (Oliverio; Judiciary then Finance)
  • SB 64: Prohibiting financial institutions from discriminating against firearms businesses (Phillips; Banking and Insurance then Judiciary)
  • SB 65: Relating to fire department recruitment and retention (FN) (Phillips; Government Organization then Finance)
  • SB 66: Providing exemption from state severance tax for coal sold to coal-fired power plants located in WV (FN) (Phillips; Energy, Industry and Mining then Finance)
  • SB 67: Allowing motor vehicle racing on county or municipal roads under certain circumstances (FN) (Maynard; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
  • SB 68: Limiting landowner liability when land is used for certain purposes (Maynard; Judiciary)
  • SB 69: Requiring parental notification of minors being prescribed contraceptives (Maynard; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 70: Clarifying process for filling vacancies in Legislature (Maynard; Judiciary)
  • SB 71: WV Monument and Memorial Protection Act of 2025 (Maynard; Government Organization)
  • SB 72: Requiring parental notification of school-based dispensaries of contraceptives to minors (Maynard; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 73: Clarifying that tenancy includes persons who reside in sober living home (Woelfel; Judiciary)
  • SB 74: Creating pilot program for recovery residences in Cabell County (Woelfel; Judiciary)
  • SB 75: Changing distribution of income from excess lottery fund (FN) (Rucker; Finance)
  • SB 76: Increasing WV Natural Resources Police Officer Retirement System accrued benefit for certain members (FN) (Deeds; Pensions then Finance)
  • SB 77: Providing all coal severance tax be provided to county that produced coal (FN) (Phillips; Energy, Industry and Mining then Finance)
  • SB 78: Providing tax credit to corporations for existing employer-provided child care facilities (FN) (Takubo; Finance)
  • SB 79: Uniform Mortgage Modification Act (IB) (Oliverio; Judiciary)
  • SB 80: Requiring moment of silence at beginning of each school day (Rucker; Education then Judiciary)
  • SB 81: Establishing criminal offense for crimes against public justice workers (Rucker; Judiciary)
  • SB 82: Establishing criminal penalties for abuse or neglect of incapacitated adults (Rucker; Judiciary)
  • SB 83: Allowing Foster Care Ombudsman access to child protective records (Rucker; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 84: Providing license for certified professional midwife (Rucker; Health and Human Resources then Government Organization)
  • SB 85: Prohibiting use or sale of abortifacients (Rucker; Judiciary)
  • SB 86: Creating Unmatched Medical Graduate Advisory Council (Rucker; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 87: Establishing WV Mothers and Babies Pregnancy Support Program (Rucker; Finance)
  • SB 88: Requiring Fire Commission promulgate standards for propane tank installation in certain homes (Rucker; Government Organization)
  • SB 89: Creating alternative high-risk population public charter schools (FN) (Education then Finance)
  • SB 90: Providing greater access to unused buildings for public charter schools (Rucker; Education)
  • SB 91: Requiring notice be sent to owners of record before real property can be sold due to nonpayment of taxes (Rucker; Government Organization)
  • SB92: Glucagon for Schools Act (Rucker; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 93: Creating E-cigarette and E-cigarette Liquid Directory (Rucker; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 94: Requiring course in public schools on human development (Rucker; Education)
  • SB 95: Allowing reimbursement for remote ultrasound procedures and fetal nonstress tests (Rucker; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 96: Exempting ad valorem property tax on property used for divine worship, educational, and charitable purposes (FN) (Rucker; Finance)
  • SB 97: WV Chemical Abortion Prohibition Act (Rucker; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
  • SB 98: Adding grievance and appellate procedures for individuals participating in DMV safety and treatment program (FN) (Rucker; Judiciary then Finance)
  • SB 99: Return to WV Tax Credit Act (FN) (Clements; Finance)
  • SB 100: Allowing members of State Police retirement system to use accrued leave as credit toward retirement (Barrett; Pensions then Finance)
  • SB 100: Allowing members of State Police retirement system to use accrued leave as credit toward retirement (Barrett; Pensions then Finance)
  • SB 101: Imposing deadlines for autopsies and autopsy reports (Weld; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 102: Modifying form of certain deeds (Weld; Judiciary)
  • SB 103: Exempting certain records from public release (Weld; Military)
  • SB 104: Clarifying sheriff’s compensation for collection of taxes (Weld; Government Organization)
  • SB 105: Updating retirement eligibility for certain sheriffs (Weld; Pensions then Finance)
  • SB 106: Authorizing Department of Homeland Security to assist with border security in Texas (FN) (Stuart; Finance)
  • SB 107: Relating to real property, tax, and registration requirements associated with carbon offset agreements (FN) (Tarr; Natural Resources then Finance)
  • SB 108: Relating to voluntary immunization in private schools (Roberts; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 109: Neighborhood Assistance and Rejuvenation Compact Act (FN) (Tarr; Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health then Finance)
  • SB 110: Creating Medicaid state plan amendment to provide cost sharing for certain populations (Tarr; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 111: Requiring correctional facilities to provide free feminine hygiene products (FN) (Woelfel; Judiciary then Finance)
  • SB 112: Prohibiting acceptance of illegal ballots cast in any election (Tarr; Judiciary)
  • SB 113: Modifying responsibility for reimbursement of training cost of certain law-enforcement employees (Clements; Finance)
  • SB 114: Requiring lending institutions to utilize DMV electronic lien system under certain circumstances (Clements; Transportation and Infrastructure)
  • SB 115: Establishing tax credit for certain physicians who locate to practice in WV (Takubo; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 116: Increasing dental coverage limit for Medicaid enrollees (FN) (Takubo; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 117: Exempting certain physicians from specified traffic laws when responding to emergencies (Takubo; Transportation and Infrastructure)
  • SB 118: Creating Forensic Pathology Recruitment Program (Takubo; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 119: Stop the Bleed Act (Takubo; Education)
  • SB 120: Establishing and administering DNA identification system (Takubo; Judiciary then Finance)
  • SB 121: Updating language and increasing penalties for indecent exposure (Weld; Judiciary)
  • SB 122: Establishing minimum student enrollment for school aid formula (FN) (Clements; Education then Finance)
  • SB 123: Permitting DOH Commissioner to realign spending within State Road Fund (Clements; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
  • SB 124: Reducing statute of limitations on actions to recover on oral and written contracts (Barrett; Judiciary)
  • SB 125: Clarifying when magistrate vacancies shall be filled (Chapman; Judiciary)
  • SB 126: WV Volunteer State Defense Guard Act (Chapman; Military then Finance)
  • SB 127: Establishing revocation of authority for spending by agency in support of challenge to WV law (Tarr; Judiciary then Finance)
  • SB 128: Preventing courts from ordering services at higher rate than Medicaid (Tarr; Judiciary)
  • SB 129: Establishing Medicaid cost containment measures (Tarr; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 130: Prioritizing medical services for Medicaid beneficiaries in WV be delivered within state (Tarr; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 131: Modifying prohibitions on illegal immigrants entering or residing in WV (Tarr; Judiciary)
  • SB 132: Relating to county economic opportunity development districts (Tarr; Economic Development then Finance)
  • SB 133: Prohibiting ranked choice voting in elections (Tarr; Judiciary)
  • SB 134: Prohibiting camping in public places (Tarr; Judiciary)
  • SB 135: Precluding Department of Agriculture from cancellation of certain leases (Tarr; Agriculture)
  • SB 136: Modifying parole eligibility for person serving sentence for first degree murder (Weld; Judiciary)
  • SB 137: Requiring political action committee to disclose contributors’ names and addresses to Secretary of State (Hamilton; Government Organization then Judiciary)
  • SB 138: Enhancing penalties for fleeing officer (Hamilton; Judiciary)
  • SB 139: Requiring one-year residency within district or county to fill vacancy in Legislature (Hamilton; Judiciary)
  • SB 140: Clarifying when excess funds accumulated by boards are to be transferred to General Revenue Fund (Woodrum; Finance)
  • SB 141: Authorizing DNR Director to enter into certain agreements with federal agencies (Woodrum; Natural Resources)
  • SB 142: Mountain Bike Responsibility Act (Woodrum; Natural Resources then Judiciary)
  • SB 143: Relating to Uniform Controlled Substances Act (Weld; Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health then Judiciary)
  • SB 144: Relating to Military Incentive Program (FN) (Weld; Military then Finance)
  • SB 145: Relating to real property conveyed by land installment agreement (Weld; Judiciary)
  • SB 146: Providing for substantial deference to state school superintendent’s interpretations of school laws (Weld; Judiciary)
  • SB 147: Establishing aggravated felony offense of reckless driving resulting in death (Weld; Judiciary)
  • SB 148: Clarifying provision of electricity on premises of US armed forces or WV National Guard does not constitute public service (Weld; Energy, Industry, and Mining then Economic Development)
  • SB 149: Exempting certain military veterans and their dependents from tuition (Weld; Military then Finance)
  • SB 150: Creating felony offense of cruelty to animals (Weld; Judiciary)
  • SB 151: Creating crime of assault on police dogs and other public safety animals (Weld; Judiciary)
  • SB 152: Providing waiver of fees for emergency responders disabled in line of duty for hunting, trapping, and fishing licenses (FN) (Weld; Natural Resources then Finance)
  • SB 153: Exempting certain persons from hunting, trapping, and fishing license fees (FN) (Weld; Natural Resources then Finance)
  • SB 154: Prohibiting public schools from requiring students to participate in sexual orientation instruction (Grady; Education then Judiciary)
  • SB 155: Establishing Summer Feeding for All Program (Woelfel; Education then Finance)
  • SB 156: Providing diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations without cost sharing (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 157: Providing pay raise for state road employees (Chapman; Transportation and Infrastructure then Finance)
  • SB 158: Modifying eligibility requirements for serving as member of State Board of Education (Chapman; Education then Judiciary)
  • SB 159: Prohibiting certain medical exams on anesthetized patients (Chapman; Judiciary)
  • SB 160: Providing Medicaid coverage for postpartum health care (FN) (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 161: Providing water filtration equipment to residents whose water is deemed unsafe (FN) (Chapman; Natural Resources then Finance)
  • SB 162: Limiting cost of prescription medications for senior citizens (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
  • SB 163: Including certain mental health disorders in existing public health programs (Chapman; Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health)
  • SB 164: Clarifying parent and guardian access to minor child’s medical records (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
  • SB 165: Ensuring equal financial support to kinship parents and fictive kin (Chapman; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 166: Requiring CPS to give parents written copy of their rights in certain circumstances (Chapman; Judiciary)
  • SB 167: Permitting care of patient by telemedicine across state lines (Chapman; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 168: Prohibiting rent control (Chapman; Government Organization)
  • SB 169: Correlating Medicaid personal needs allowance with state poverty index (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 170: Stop Non-Consensual Distribution of Intimate Deep Fake Media Act (Chapman; Judiciary)
  • SB 171: Requiring all state buildings provide private room for nursing or breastfeeding purposes (FN) (Chapman; Government Organization then Finance)
  • SB 172: Permitting retired teachers to substitute up to 180 days without penalty of losing retirement (FN) (Chapman; Pensions then Finance)
  • SB 173: Requiring hotels and public lodging establishments to provide human trafficking awareness training for employees (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Judiciary)
  • SB 174: Clarifying what constitutes shelter for animals exposed to cold weather (Chapman; Agriculture then Judiciary)
  • SB 175: Prohibiting counties from double-taxing rental properties (Chapman; Government Organization)
  • SB 176: Relating to food allergen awareness in food service establishments (FN) (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 177: Pharmacist Prescribing Authority Act (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Government Organization)
  • SB 178: Imposing limit of three terms on elected public officials in state (Chapman; Judiciary)
  • SB 179: Granting school administrators ability to hold students back for 20 or more missed days (Chapman; Education)
  • SB 180: Relating to teaching and instructing world languages in public schools (Chapman; Education)
  • SB 181: Requiring payments to court-appointed attorneys be reimbursed or denied within 30 days of voucher submission (Chapman; Judiciary)
  • SB 182: Relating to EMT funding (Chapman; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 183: Providing tax deduction for medical payments (FN) (Chapman; Finance)
  • SB 184: Prohibiting pre-conviction forfeiture of someone merely accused of crime (Chapman; Judiciary)
  • SB 185: Relating to lab grown meat (Chapman; Agriculture)
  • SB 186: Modifying witness fee and mileage rate paid by state to match federal court system (FN) (Grady; Judiciary then Finance)
  • SB 187: Providing bonuses to school personnel for unused personal days (Grady; Education then Finance)
  • SB 188: Increasing penalty for voluntary manslaughter (Deeds; Judiciary)
  • SB 189: Allowing for testimony of spouses in criminal case (Deeds; Judiciary)
  • SB 190: Increasing retirement benefit multiplier of Deputy Sheriff Retirement System Act (FN) (Deeds; Pensions then Finance)
  • SB 191: Modifying retirement and disability benefits for dependents of certain State Police retirees (FN) (Deeds; Pensions then Finance)
  • SB 192: Updating retirement eligibility for certain sheriffs (FN) (Deeds; Pensions then Finance)
  • SB 193: Clarifying amount of deputy sheriff annual salary increase (Deeds; Government Organization)
  • SB 194: Modifying parole eligibility for crime of second-degree murder (Deeds; Judiciary)
  • SB 195: Providing reports to DMV on mental and physical disabilities for driver’s license (Deeds; Judiciary)
  • SB 196: Increasing penalties for drug possession and updating list of offenses (Deeds; Judiciary)
  • SB 197: Limiting requirements for issuance of professional teaching certificate (Grady; Education)
  • SB 198: Prohibiting creation, production, distribution, or possession of artificially generated child pornography (Grady; Judiciary)
  • SB 199: Relating to elementary behavior intervention and safety (Grady; Education)
  • SB 200: Placing limitations on concealed carry permit (Tarr; Judiciary)
  • SB 201: Anti-Racism Act of 2025 (FN) (Tarr; Judiciary then Finance)
  • SB 202: Establishing crime of sexual assault in fourth degree (Tarr; Judiciary)
  • SB 203: Making syringe exchange services programs unlawful (Tarr; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 204: Making opioid treatment programs unlawful (Tarr; Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health then Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 205: Prompt Payment Act of 2025 (Tarr; Finance)
  • SB 206: Precluding Department of Agriculture from cancellation of certain leases (Tarr; Agriculture)
  • SB 207: Prohibiting certain funding and involvement or attendance of minors to drag shows (Tarr; Judiciary)
  • SB 208: Mountain Homes Act (FN) (Tarr; Economic Development then Finance)
  • SB 209: Creating WV Guardian Program (FN) (Tarr; Education then Finance)
  • SB 210: Defining protections for election officials and election workers (Woelfel; Judiciary)
  • SB 211: Relating to procedure for citations issued by county litter control officer (Woelfel; Government Organization then Judiciary)
  • SB 212: Creating Critical Incident Review Team (Woelfel; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 213: Establishing revocation of authority for spending by agency in support of challenge to WV law (Tarr; Judiciary then Finance)
  • SB 214: Creating homeless education coordinator in counties designated by state board as urban county (Woelfel; Education then Finance)
  • SB 215: Relating to registration as service worker for Bureau for Children and Families (Woelfel; Health and Human Resources)
  • SB 216: Providing medical examination transportation services for students who seek support after experiencing sexual violence (Woelfel; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 217: Authorizing child or child care tax credit. (FN) (Woelfel; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 218: Creating tax credit related to child care expenses (FN) (Woelfel; Health and Human Resources then Finance)
  • SB 219: Amending penalty of simple possession of marijuana from misdemeanor crime to civil violation (Woelfel; Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health then Judiciary)
  • SB 220: Authorizi

Contact: Jacque Bland 304-357-7999

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Member Press Release

Statement on behalf of Speaker Hanshaw

“After recent conversation with Delegate Brandon Steele and in recognition of his need to spend more time focused on matters outside the Capitol building, I’m pleased to name Delegate JB Akers as our Standing Judiciary Committee Chairman for the 87th Legislature while Delegate Jordan Maynor will ably step into the Vice Chairman position. Delegate Akers has acclimated quickly to the legislative process and has shown a thoughtful approach to consensus-building that will serve us well.”

Contact: Ann Ali at (304) 340-3323

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Member Press Release

Senate President Randy Smith Names Leadership Team, Major Committee Chairmen for 87th Legislature

CHARLESTON – Senate President Randy Smith, R-Preston, today announced his leadership team and Major Committee chairmen and vice-chairmen for the upcoming 2025 Regular Session. The newly chosen leadership team assumed their responsibilities upon being sworn in on January 8.

Senator Patrick Martin, R-Lewis, will serve as Majority Leader. He represents the 12th Senatorial District and was first elected to the Senate in 2020. He previously served two terms in the West Virginia House of Delegates.

Senator Jay Taylor, R-Taylor, will serve as Majority Whip. He represents the 14th Senatorial District and was elected to the Senate in 2022.

“I’m proud of the team we have put together for the upcoming session,” Senate President Smith said. “I knew that I wanted fresh perspectives and a new approach to how we work as a team to address the challenges that are facing West Virginia. Each one of our committee chairmen and vice chairmen brings a unique perspective to the table, and I am very excited about the work that we will accomplish together.”

Major committee leadership is as follows:

Finance

Chairman – Senator Jason Barrett, R-Berkeley

Vice-Chairman – Senator Rollan Roberts, R-Raleigh

Judiciary

Chairman – Senator Mike Stuart, R-Kanawha

Vice-Chairman – Senator Tom Willis, R-Berkeley

Education

Chairman – Senator Amy Nichole Grady, R-Mason

Vice-Chairman – Senator Charles Clements, R-Wetzel

Health and Human Resources

Chairman – Senator Laura Wakim Chapman, R-Ohio

Vice-Chairman – Senator Vince Deeds, R-Greenbrier

Government Organization

Chairman – Senator Patricia Rucker, R-Jefferson

Vice-Chairman – Senator Jack David Woodrum, R-Summers

Contact: Jacque Bland at (304) 357-7999

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Member Press Release

Senate President Randy Smith Names Leadership for Senate Committees for 87th Legislature

CHARLESTON – Senate President Randy Smith, R-Preston, today announced leadership for all remaining Senate committees for the 2025 Regular Session.

For the 87th Legislature, the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee will be split into two separate committees. In addition, Senate President Smith has authorized the creation of the Select Committee on Substance Abuse and Mental Health.

“Our Senate committees focus on issues that touch the lives of every West Virginian,” Senate President Smith said. “I am lucky to have such a variety of members with vast experiences willing to step up and assume these roles, and I look forward to getting our hard work started.”

Committee leadership is as follows:

Energy, Industry and Mining

Chairman – Senator Chris Rose, R-Monongalia

Vice-Chairman – Senate Ben Queen, R-Harrison

Economic Development

Chairman – Senator Glenn Jeffries, R-Putnam

Vice-Chairman – Senator Robbie Morris, R-Randolph

Banking and Insurance

Chairman – Senator Mike Azinger, R-Wood

Vice-Chairman – Senator Robbie Morris, R-Randolph

Military

Chairman – Senator Ryan Weld, R-Brooke

Vice-Chairman – Senator Scott Fuller, R-Wayne

Transportation

Chairman – Senator Mark Maynard, R-Wayne

Vice-Chairman – Senator Jay Taylor, R-Taylor

Pensions

Chairman – Senator Mike Oliverio, R-Monongalia

Agriculture

Chairman – Senator Craig Hart, R-Mingo

Vice-Chairman – Senator Darren Thorne, R-Hampshire

Natural Resources

Chairman – Senator Bill Hamilton, R-Upshur

Vice-Chairman – Senator Vince Deeds, R-Greenbrier

Workforce

Chairman – Senator Rollan Roberts, R-Raleigh

Vice-Chairman – Senator Jack David Woodrum, R-Summers

Confirmations

Chairman – Senator Donna Boley, R-Pleasants

Vice-Chairman – Senator Laura Wakim Chapman, R-Ohio

Enrolled Bills

Chairman – Senator Jack David Woodrum, R-Summers

Vice-Chairman – Senator Scott Fuller, R-Wayne

Rules

Chairman – Senator Randy Smith, R-Preston

Vice-Chairman – Senator Patrick Martin, R-Lewis

Select Committee on Substance Abuse and Mental Health

Chairman – Senator Brian Helton, R-Fayette

Vice-Chairman – Senator Ryan Weld, R-Brooke

Contact: Jacque Bland at (304) 357-7999

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Member Press Release

Speaker Hanshaw Announces Plans for Upcoming 87th Legislature

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – House Speaker Roger Hanshaw, R-Clay, today announced several leadership roles within the West Virginia House of Delegates and a change to the committee format for the upcoming 87th Legislature.

Hanshaw, first elected to the House in 2014, is expected to be elected House Speaker for the fifth time when the House convenes for the 87th Legislature Wednesday, Jan. 8. “Each of the ladies and gentlemen who will come to this building to take the oath of office will do so with the confidence of the 1.8 million West Virginians who are counting on us to chart a course of leadership and progress that will improve their daily lives,” Hanshaw said. “A new Legislature is an opportunity to adjust the foundation we have here to facilitate the work of the House, and we believe the lineup we’ve assembled will bring about new discussions, new approaches and new solutions.”

Returning to the position of Majority Whip will be Delegate Marty Gearheart, R-Mercer. Delegate Matt Rohrbach, R-Cabell, will serve as Speaker Pro Tempore as well as continue to serve as Deputy Speaker, a role Delegate David Kelly, R-Tyler, will take on as well.

Delegate Pat McGeehan, R-Hancock, will serve as House Majority Leader. Several members will serve as Assistant Majority Leaders: Delegates Tom Clark, R-Webster; David Green, R-McDowell; Keith Marple, R-Harrison; Delegate-elect Dave McCormick, R-Monongalia; Erica Moore, R-Roane; Mickey Petitto, R-Harrison; and Elliott Pritt, R-Fayette.

Gearheart will be aided in his role with several Assistant Majority Whips: Delegates Jim Butler, R-Mason; Jordan Bridges, R-Logan; Eric Brooks, R-Raleigh; Dave Foggin, R-Wood; Delegate-elect Sarah Drennan, R-Putnam; and Bill Ridenour, R-Jefferson.

The Conference Chairman role will be filled by Delegate Mike Hornby, R-Berkeley, who will help facilitate majority caucus meetings and policy discussions among Republican members. Delegates John Paul Hott, R-Grant, and Doug Smith, R-Mercer, will return to their roles as Conference Vice Chairmen.

“In addition to a strong blend of new and established leadership, I’m excited to implement a new format for our committee work here in the House,” Hanshaw said. “For far too long, the success rate of a legislative session has been measured by the number of bills passed, and that’s just not the appropriate assessment for what should be a focus on problem-solving.

“We’ve seen that the low-hanging fruits, such as the elimination of the food tax and creation of an Intermediate Court of Appeals, have already been picked after 10 years of a Republican majority. What’s left are the complex, complicated issues that will require a different approach to lawmaking.”

The House will have six standing committees: Health and Human Resources, Energy and Public Works, Finance, Government Organization, Education and Judiciary. The Standing Committee on Finance will have four subcommittees and all other standing committees each will have three subcommittees. The committee process also will see changes.

The Speaker will refer each introduced bill to a standing committee or a subcommittee, and similar to the floor session’s three-day process, a bill going through the committee process may cover three days: Introduction, with agency reviews and comments from the public on day one, markups to the bill on day two and committee votes on day three. Both the subcommittees and standing committees will follow this process.

“Not only did we want to build in specific and predictable steps with appropriate timing for the committee process, but we also wanted to better execute our oversight role,” Hanshaw said. “Not every problem is solved by enacting a new law, and we think regular discussions with Executive Branch agencies will give all of us a better understanding of the challenges, successes and resources out there in every corner of our state.”

The Standing Committee on Finance will be led by Chairman Vernon Criss, R-Wood, with Delegate Clay Riley, R-Harrison, serving as Vice Chair. Its Subcommittee on Revenue will be led by Gearheart as its Chairman and Delegate Chuck Horst, R-Berkeley, as Vice Chair. Delegate Trenton Barnhart, R-Pleasants, will be Chairman of the Banking and Insurance Subcommittee and Delegate Walter Hall, R-Kanawha, will be the Vice Chair. The Investments Subcommittee will have Delegate Jarred Cannon, R-Putnam, as Chairman and Delegate-elect Ray Canterbury, R-Greenbrier, as Vice Chair. The Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman will be Hott and Roy Cooper, R-Summers, will serve as its Vice Chair.

Delegate Brandon Steele, R-Raleigh, will serve as Chairman of the Standing Committee on the Judiciary and Delegate JB Akers, R-Kanawha, will be its Vice Chair. The Courts Subcommittee will be led by Delegate Phil Mallow, R-Marion, as its Chairman and Delegate Andy Shamblin, R-Kanawha, as Vice Chair. Delegate Buck Jennings, R-Preston, will serve as Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee and Delegate Bryan Ward, R-Hardy, as its Vice Chairman. Delegate Laura Kimble, R-Harrison, will lead the Legal Services Subcommittee as its Chairman and Delegate Josh Holstein, R-Boone, will serve as its Vice Chair.

Delegate Evan Worrell, R-Cabell, will serve as Chairman of the Standing Committee on Health and Human Resources. Delegate Michael Hite, R-Berkeley, will be its Vice Chair. The Public Health Subcommittee will be led by Delegate Scot Heckert, R-Wood, and Vice Chairman Geno Chiarelli, R-Monongalia. Delegate Adam Burkhammer, R-Lewis, will be Chairman of the Human Services Subcommittee with Delegate Margitta Mazzocchi, R-Logan, serving as its Vice Chair. The Health Care Regulation Subcommittee will have Delegate Dean Jeffries, R-Kanawha, serving as Chairman and Delegate Adam Vance, R-Wyoming, as its Vice Chair.

The Standing Committee on Government Organization will be led by Delegate Chris Phillips, R-Barbour, as its Chairman and Doug Smith, R-Mercer, as Vice Chair. Its Subcommittee on Government Administration will have Delegate Jonathan Pinson, R-Mason, as its Chairman and Delegate Mark Dean, R-Mingo, as its Vice Chair. The Subcommittee on Local Governments will be led by Chairman Dana Ferrell, R-Kanawha, and Vice Chairman Mike DeVault, R-Marion. The Agriculture, Commerce and Tourism Subcommittee will be led by Delegate Wayne Clark, R-Jefferson, as its Chairman and Delegate Patrick Lucas, R-Cabell, as its Vice Chair. The Standing Committee on Education will be led by Chairman Joe Ellington, R-Mercer, and Delegate Joe Statler, R-Monongalia, will serve as its Vice Chair. The Delegate Chris Toney, R-Raleigh, will serve as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Public Education and Delegate Jeff Campbell, R-Greenbrier, as its Vice Chair. Delegate Lori Dittman, R-Braxton, will be Chairman of the Higher Education Subcommittee with Delegate Jimmy Willis, R-Brooke, serving as its Vice Chair. Delegate Kathie Hess-Crouse will serve as Chairman of the Educational Choice Subcommittee and Delegate Mike Hornby, R-Berkeley, as its Vice Chair.

Delegate Bill Anderson, R-Wood, will be Chairman of the Standing Committee on Energy and Public Works with Delegate Mark Zatezalo, R-Hancock, serving as its Vice Chair. Delegate Bob Fehrenbacher, R-Wood, will serve as Chairman of the Energy and Manufacturing Subcommittee with Delegate George Street, R-Preston, as its Vice Chair. The Economic Development Subcommittee will be led by Chairman Gary Howell, R-Mineral, and Vice Chairman Jordan Maynor, R-Raleigh. Chairman Daniel Linville, R-Cabell, will lead the Environment and Infrastructure Subcommittee with Delegate Rick Hillenbrand, R-Hampshire, serving as its Vice Chair.

“We know this will be a big adjustment for a lot of us, especially our staff and the public, but we are optimistic about this approach, which we think will be easier to follow and will lead to a more solution-oriented approach to lawmaking,” Hanshaw said.

Contact: Ann Ali at (304) 340-3323

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Member Press Release

Senate President-Elect Randy Smith Names Leadership for Senate Finance Committee

CHARLESTON – Senate President-elect Randy Smith, R-Preston, today announced the selection of Senator Jason Barrett, R-Berkeley, as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee for the 87th Legislature, which begins on January 8, 2025.

Senator Rollan Roberts, R-Raleigh, will serve as Vice Chairman. Senate President-Elect Smith noted that his background and expertise will help provide a full perspective on the management of West Virginia’s budgeting and finance needs.

“The Finance Committee does some of the hardest work and heaviest lifting in the Legislature, and it’s a tough job,” Senator Smith said. “I knew I wanted a fresh set of eyes and a strong ability to work with all of our state agencies to take a hard look at our state’s revenues and expenses, and I am confident in Senator Barrett’s ability to take on this task.”

Senate President-elect Smith said that Senator Barrett’s experience as a job creator and small business owner and manager gives him the kind of experience he needs to ensure our state’s budget and finances maintain their health.

“As a person who signs the front of a paycheck, Senator Barrett knows that budgeting and operating within your means isn’t an option,” Senator Smith said. “As a person who is deeply involved in his community, he’s also aware of the critical needs our state has, especially when it comes to infrastructure. He will be able to bring both of these skill sets to the table and ensure West Virginia’s tax dollars are spent wisely and responsibly.”

Senate President-elect Smith also said he looks forward to Senator Barrett continuing the work that outgoing Senate Finance Committee Chairman Eric Tarr, R-Putnam, has done during his service as Chairman.

“Senator Tarr did an outstanding job as our Finance Committee Chairman, and because of his vision, planning, and execution, we were able to secure record-breaking surpluses and provide historic personal income tax cuts to our citizens,” Senator Smith said. “I am grateful to him for his service and thank him for his leadership.”

Contact: Jacque Bland at (304) 357-7999

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Member Press Release

Senator Jason Barrett Named Chairman of Finance Committee

CHARLESTON – Senator Jason Barrett, R-Berkeley, said he is honored to be named Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee for the 87th Legislature, which begins on January 8, 2025.

“I am grateful to Senate President-elect Smith for trusting me with this responsibility, and I will work every single day to ensure that we manage West Virginia’s taxpayer money with the respect it deserves,” Senator Barrett said. Senator Barrett is a small business owner in Berkeley County and serves on the Board of Directors of several organizations throughout the Eastern Panhandle. He was first elected to the House of Delegates in 2012 and elected to the Senate in 2022.

“Senate President-elect Smith has been a hard-working family man his entire life, and he knows what it means to have to balance a budget,” Senator Barrett said. “He has a strong sense of what our priorities must be to move West Virginia forward, and I am excited to help him bring that vision to life. We share the belief that we need to invest in our infrastructure and fix our state’s roads, and I am eager to get to work on addressing that need in the upcoming session.”

Senator Barrett said under Senate President-elect Smith’s guidance, he has confidence that West Virginia is poised for growth and success in the future.

“I’m excited to be a part of the leadership team that Senate President Smith is building, and I think West Virginians are really going to see the kind of meaningful financial stewardship that this state expects,” Senator Barrett said. “We look forward to working with Governor-elect Morrisey to make sure that our state’s budget is fiscally responsible and financially sound.”

Contact: Jacque Bland at (304) 357-7999

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Member Press Release

Senate President-Elect Randy Smith Names Leadership for Senate Judiciary Committee

CHARLESTON – Senate President-Elect Randy Smith, R-Preston, today announced the selection of Senator Mike Stuart, R-Kanawha, a former United States Attorney under President Trump, as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee for the 87th Legislature, which begins on January 8, 2025.

Incoming Senator Tom Willis, R-Berkeley, will serve as Vice Chairman. Willis, an attorney from Hedgesville, is a Special Forces Green Beret veteran and Lieutenant Colonel in the West Virginia National Guard.

“We needed to find a leader who was not afraid to stand up for the people of West Virginia,” Senator Smith said. “It was a pretty easy choice considering the background Senator Stuart brings to the team. Not only has he served under President Trump, but he has taken on major issues like the opioid epidemic and has been a staunch advocate for transparency in our government.”

Senate President-elect Smith said Senator Stuart’s extensive experience in the legal field and a proven track record of dedication to his constituents makes him an ideal fit for the role. In addition, he said Senator Stuart’s ability to navigate complex legal matters and provide valuable leadership in shaping legislation that will positively impact the citizens of West Virginia will be critical in the upcoming session.

“The Chairman’s deep understanding of legal issues, coupled with a steadfast commitment to serving the public interest, makes him a natural choice for this crucial role,” Senator Smith said.

In assuming the chairmanship of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Senator Stuart will play a pivotal role in shaping the legislative agenda and helping to reduce government overreach, ensuring that West Virginia citizens and businesses will face fewer barriers. With a focus on transparency, accountability, and cooperation, Senator Stuart will be committed to fostering a legislative environment where the voices of all West Virginians are heard and respected, Senate President-elect Smith said.

“I look forward to working closely with Chairman Stuart and Vice Chairman Willis to advance the welfare of the residents of West Virginia and uphold the values that define our great state,” Senator Smith said.

Contact: Jacque Bland at (304) 357-7999

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