Government, The Braxton Democrat

Legislative Update… By Lori Dittman WV House of Delegates 63rd District

On January 12, 2025, the West Virginia House of Delegates held the first session of the 87th Legislature. The Secretary of State presented the 2024 election results, confirming a quorum of ninety-one out of ninety-nine members. Justice Dan Greer administered the Oath of Office. An additional delegate arrived before the Speaker’s election, bringing the quorum to 92 members.
Roger Hanshaw was elected Speaker, defeating Sean Hornbuckle. Hanshaw expressed gratitude and highlighted investments in people, hospitals, higher education, infrastructure, and healthcare services. He noted West Virginia’s high inward migration rate but acknowledged ongoing challenges in health outcomes, salaries, and infrastructure access. Hanshaw emphasized the need for continued progress and looked forward to working with Governor Morrissey to make West Virginia an attractive place to live, work, and raise a family.
The Senate and the Justices of the Supreme Court of Appeals joined Delegates in a joint session. The Secretary of State provided the election returns to the Speaker and President. The elected Constitutional Officers are:

  • Patrick Morrisey, Governor
  • Kris Warner, Secretary of State
  • John “JB” McCuskey, Attorney General
  • Larry Pack, Treasurer
  • Mark Hunt, Auditor
  • Kent Leonhardt, Commissioner of Agriculture
    Governor Jim Justice shared his farewell address, reflecting on his two terms and likening his leadership to coaching a sports team. He expressed pride in overcoming challenges and achieving record-breaking tax revenue surpluses. The governor highlighted initiatives, such as the Roads to Prosperity program, tax cuts, tourism advancements, and educational improvements. He also expressed pride in the state’s success in overcoming external skepticism. He urged support for incoming Governor Patrick Morrisey and wished him success.
    Prior to the opening day, several interim committee meetings were canceled due to snow. I did, however, attend the Joint Committee on Education, where we heard from the Menta Group, leaders in special education for students whose exceptionalities have precluded them from general education settings and those who are at-risk.
    State Superintendent of Schools, Michelle Blatt, provided an update on the STRIVE Program. The program aims to strengthen behavior response through targeted assistance to promote regular attendance, increased achievement, validated practices, and empowered support teams. It brings together literacy and numeracy specialists, school safety officers, and behavior support specialists. Currently, the program is piloting alternative learning programs in eight county school districts.
    David Viands, President of the WV Athletic Directors Association, spoke to the committee about student transfer rules. Athletic directors expressed concerns about juniors and seniors transferring to win championships, creating disparities among teams. Steve Campbell, another athletic director, emphasized the need to find common ground, seek solutions, and evaluate the long-term implications of the rule.
    During Winter Storm Blair, the Division of Highways and First Responders worked diligently to ensure our safety. Their efforts in clearing roads and providing essential services were crucial in keeping our communities functioning. We are grateful for their dedication and hard work during this challenging time.
    The inauguration of Governor-elect Morrissey will take place on January 13th. The next four weeks will pass quickly, and the 87th legislative session will resume on
    February 12th. Although committee assignments are not complete, I have been named Chair of the Subcommittee on Higher Education and will continue to serve on the Education and Finance Committees.
    As I close out this week, I share my sadness at the fires devastating southern California. All those that have experienced so much loss and hardship as a result of hurricanes, fires, and terrorism are in my prayers.
    “You do not need to know precisely what is happening, or exactly where it is all going. What you need is to recognize the possibilities and challenges offered by the present moment, and to embrace them with courage, faith, and hope.” (Thomas Merton)
    I look forward to hearing from people in the district and hope to see you out and about enjoying all the great things our area has to offer. I can be contacted at lori.dittman@wv house.gov or 304-701-8600.