Government, The Braxton Democrat

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

The recent rise in temperatures has been a welcome change, leading to clear roads and a more pleasant environment. The dogs and I took advantage of the beautiful weather and enjoyed a refreshing walk today. According to the weather forecast, the next week looks promising, and we may have a full week of school without any snow days or delays.
Although it is not legislative news I do want to talk about a special day last week at Braxton Middle School. Seventh and eighth grade students experienced the “Get a Life” program. This program, developed by Fairmont State University for the West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office, aims to instruct students about managing personal finances through an engaging budget simulation. Students start with a red card that includes a job title, family size, and monthly income, representing jobs available in West Virginia without post-secondary education. They must budget for essentials like a car, house, insurance, groceries, and more. The “Green Reaper” introduces unexpected expenses, often leading students into debt. They then trade their red card for a green one, representing better jobs obtained through higher education (college, trade schools, certifications). This simulation helps students understand the importance of financial management and the benefits of post-secondary education. This hands-on approach not only enhances learning, but it also builds critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which is crucial for success in real-world scenarios.
The inauguration of President Trump marks a significant moment in the history of our nation. As the newly elected leader takes the oath of office, I extend congratulations and best wishes for a successful term. May the president’s tenure be filled with wisdom, courage, and a steadfast commitment to the values and principles that define our country. May we have a future of prosperity, unity, and progress under their leadership.
“If we are to put an end to division, people from all political persuasions will have to stop fighting one another and seek true unity, not just a consensus that benefits one party.”
(Ben Carson)
The legislative session is just a little over two weeks away, and I have been diligently preparing for it. My preparations have included extensive research, working on agendas, and reaching out to various leaders. I have also been actively engaging with constituents, both in-person and through virtual meetings, to ensure their voices are heard.
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 [email protected] or 304-701-8600.