(Charleston, W.Va.) – For his years of legislative service, Sen. Joseph Minard (D–Harrison) was appointed as the Senate President pro tempore to the 79th Legislature. It is the pro tempore’s job to lead the state Senate in the absence of the Senate president. “The office of President pro tempore of the West Virginia State Senate was long held by former Sen. Bill Sharp (D–Lewis), a highly respected and knowledgeable legislator who had many years of legislative experience,” said Senate President Earl Ray Tomblin (D–Logan). “While his shoes are impossible to fill, one senator comes very close, and that’s Sen. Joe Minard, who not only knows the system from the inside out, but could step in and run the sessions of the Senate at a moment’s notice if ever called upon. A man of calm demeanor, a friend to all and especially one who respects the traditions and rules of procedure. He is an ideal partner in guaranteeing continuity in the process of lawmaking in our West Virginia State Senate. Our state is fortunate to have such a man in its service.”

Minard has served the 12th District for 26 years being first appointed to the House in 1983 in order to fill a vacancy. He was elected to the House the following term in 1984 and moved to the Senate in 1990.

“I am honored to be appointed to this prestigious position,” Minard said. “I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues and representing the citizens of Harrison, Lewis, Gilmore and Braxton Counties.”

Minard has served as chair or vice chair for several committees during his service. Minard’s longest tenure has been as chairman for the Committee on Banking and Insurance in the 71st, 75th, 76th, 77th Legislatures as well as the current Legislative Session.

Minard has been affiliated with a number of fraternal and civic organizations He was the former president of both the Harrison County Catholic School Board and the West Virginia Hospitality Association. He has also served as chairman for the Clarksburg Urban Renewal Authority and in the Signal Corps with the U.S. Army.