The 86th Legislature kicked off on Wednesday, January 11th. This was the first time in state history that House districts are represented by single members.
The session began with administrative duties. West Virginia Supreme Court Justice Beth Walker administered the oath of office to all members who then elected Roger Hanshaw, R-Clay, to his third term as Speaker of the House. Members also elected Stephen J. Harrison for another term as Clerk of the House, Marshall Clay as Sergeant-at-Arms and Robert Stewart as Doorkeeper.
The House welcomed Gov. Jim Justice to address a joint session of the Legislature for his State of the State address and to present his budget, which proposes a 50% reduction in the personal income tax to take place in three phases over three years. The legislation to carry out that plan, House Bill 2526, advanced from the House Finance Committee on Thursday, Jan. 12, after members made a change that included the Personal Income Tax Reserve Fund in the bill. The measure would begin with a 30% reduction in state personal income tax rates beginning with the 2023 tax year, and then reduce the original rates by another 10% the following year, and another 10% the year after that.
The newly elevated House Technology and Infrastructure Committee reported out two bills this week, HB 2218, a potential expansion and modernization of current distracted driving laws, and HB 2310, which would allow the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles to develop an “antique fleet” program to utilize a single registration plate for a person to rotate among multiple antique motor vehicles.
The House Health and Human Resources Committee also advanced two measures this week: HB 2016, which would allow specific information to be shared among child agencies or facilities when making referrals or providing services on behalf of the child, while still keeping the information private; and HB 2002, which would increase support for families through several methods, including increasing the adoption tax credit and allowing adopted children of West Virginia residents to participate in the Department of Health and Human Resources’ early intervention services for children with developmental delays.
A total of 548 bills have been introduced in the House, and the 60-day, regular legislative session ends at midnight on March 11th.
It is truly an honor to serve the 63rd District and the citizens of Braxton and Gilmer counties.
I look forward to hearing from you and am dedicated to serving you to the best of my abilities and in your best interests. You may reach me at [email protected] or 304-701-8600.
“I think there’s no higher calling in terms of a career than public service, which is a chance to make a difference in people’s lives and improve the world.” (Jack Lew, former United States Secretary of the Treasury)
Devoted to Braxton County, West Virginia