http://www.legis.state.wv.us The official Web site of the West Virginia Legislature en-US john.tice@wvlegislature.gov (John Tice) Copyright 2005, West Virginia Legislature http://www.legis.state.wv.us/images/home_link.gif http://www.legis.state.wv.us 25 25 http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Senate1/President/releases.cfm?input=124 Charleston, WV - Senate President Jeff Kessler (D - Marshall) applauded today the bill signing of newly passed legislation creating the Herb Henderson Office of Minority Affairs. Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:45:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Senate1/President/releases.cfm?input=123 Charleston, WV - Senate President Jeff Kessler (D - Marshall) announced today that after championing domestic violence issues for many years, a bill beefing up protective orders has been signed into law. Thu, 05 Apr 2012 11:45:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Senate1/President/releases.cfm?input=122 Charleston, WV - Senate President Jeff Kessler (D - Marshall) applauded Governor Tomblin today for signing legislation strengthening West Virginia’s child abuse reporting requirements. Thu, 05 Apr 2012 11:40:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=960 The Governor, Speaker of the House and several delegates met today in front of the Coal Miner Memorial for a signing ceremony regarding House Bill 4351, which will allow miners to submit anonymous tips about safety issues Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:32:19 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=959 Following the completion of the 80th Regular Session, Legislators briefly reconvened in both bodies to begin working on the First Extraordinary Session. Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:15:09 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=958 The House and Senate completed legislation on Budget Bill Conference Report for Senate Bill 160, which relates to the 2013 FY Budget. The bill, Senate Bill 160 outlines the $11.6 billion state spending plan for the upcoming budget year. Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:15:09 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=955 Today the House and Senate met briefly to file the conference committee reports with their respective clerks. The Budget Bill Conference Report for Senate Bill 160 is now available on the West Virginia Legislature's website. Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:06:09 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=954 Both the House and Senate met this afternoon to discuss Senate Bill 160. Wed, 14 Mar 2012 17:21:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Senate1/President/releases.cfm?input=120 Charleston, WV - Senate President Jeff Kessler (D - Marshall) applauded today the newly passed legislation creating the Herb Henderson Office of Minority Affairs. Wed, 14 Mar 2012 15:06:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=953 The House and Senate met today to continue the extended budget session in relation to Senate Bill 160. Tue, 13 Mar 2012 12:06:52 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=950 Both bodies convened shortly after midnight to begin the 2012 extended budget session. Budget conferees will meet at 4 p.m. Monday in Room 451M. The House will reconvene at 5 p.m. Monday and the Senate will reconvene at 6 p.m. Sun, 11 Mar 2012 00:33:44 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=949 Eight bills completed legislation in the last Senate meeting of the regular session. Another eight bills were passed. Among completed legislation is Senate Bill 211, related to texting, cell phone use and driving as well as Senate Bill 437, the Governor's substance abuse legislation. Sun, 11 Mar 2012 00:32:10 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=948 The House completed bills before the adjournment at midnight. After several lengthy floor sessions, 12 bills completed legislation in this evening's last floor session of the 80th West Virginia Legislature's 2012 Regular Session. Sun, 11 Mar 2012 00:30:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=946 The Senate reconvened to take up House messages. The Senate concurred with the House on 14 bills, thus completing legislative action. One of the bills that completed is Senate Bill 55, which would extend the expiration date for certain diesel-powered motor vehicle idling restrictions. Sat, 10 Mar 2012 17:25:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=945 The House reconvened this afternoon to complete legislative action on several measures. During the second session of the day, 16 bills were completed. Sat, 10 Mar 2012 16:50:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=943 The session began with retiring Senator John Pat Fanning presiding over the Senate floor. Sat, 10 Mar 2012 13:40:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=942 The last day of session began with the House of Delegates' intense focus on completing legislation as they only have until the stroke of midnight to pass bills. Sat, 10 Mar 2012 12:21:47 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=941 During today's morning floor session, the House passed Senate Bill 211 which would make both talking and texting on a cell phone while operating a vehicle a primary offense. Fri, 09 Mar 2012 13:58:47 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=940 In this morning’s floor session, the Senate took up House messages regarding the passage of several bills. Fri, 09 Mar 2012 13:40:22 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Wrapup/2012/issue_08/wrapup.cfm Since its inception in the Summer of 2006, Twitter has grown to become an important social media sharing site, able to disseminate information among its 300 million or more users across the world, breaking stories ranging from sports, politics and natural disasters. Thu, 08 Mar 2012 17:25:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=446 Huntington, WV - Additional funding for Marshall’s Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, in the amount of $1.266 million, has been added to the base budget for the upcoming fiscal year. This amount, sought by Interim Dean, Dr. Nerhood, will be instrumental in addressing the issues related to the school’s LCME accrediting probation. Thu, 08 Mar 2012 17:20:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=939 During this afternoons floor session, nine bills completed legislative action during today’s floor session. Among those bills, is House Bill 4130, which would create the felony criminal offense of sale or purchase of a child. Thu, 08 Mar 2012 13:40:22 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=938 During today's morning floor session, the House adopted House Resolution 126 in celebration of the life and long career of West Virginia's 27th governor, Hulett C. Smith. Smith was born in Beckley, West Virginia and recently passed away at the age of 93 in his home in Arizona. Thu, 08 Mar 2012 12:50:10 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=937 During the morning floor session, the Senate adopted Senate Resolution 54 honored retiring Sen. John Pat Fanning (D- McDowell). Wed, 07 Mar 2012 13:14:50 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=934 A total of four bills were completed, and nine bills were read on third reading, several of which passed with amendments. Wed, 07 Mar 2012 12:53:20 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=933 During this evening floor session, the House completed legislation on House Bill 4351, which will allow miners to submit anonymous tips about safety issues, require that ventilation plans be submitted, and allow families to be part of the interview process should another mining disaster occur among other things. Tue, 06 Mar 2012 18:08:35 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=445 CHARLESTON - House Majority Leader Brent Boggs said he hopes the Senate will move forward legislation to equalize the salaries for county magistrates. Tue, 06 Mar 2012 15:31:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/House/Speaker/news_releases.cfm?input=122 CHARLESTON - The House of Delegates today honored retiring Sergeant-At-Arms Oce Smith, who surprised members and colleagues after a long health-related absence with a visit to the Chamber. Tue, 06 Mar 2012 14:55:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Senate1/President/releases.cfm?input=119 CHARLESTON, WV - Senate President Jeff Kessler (D-Marshall) says HB 4351 – the Governor’s Mine Safety Bill – is a good piece of legislation that will improve safety within the mining industry and help prevent mining tragedies. Tue, 06 Mar 2012 14:18:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=444 CHARLESTON, WV - Senator Orphy Klempa (D-Ohio) has been chosen as the Mountain State Trauma and Injury Prevention Coalition Senator of the Year for 2011. Tue, 06 Mar 2012 14:13:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=932 The House honored long time Sergeant-at-arms Oce W. Smith Jr. today during floor session. House Resolution 36 paid tribute to the long and colorful career of Smith, who has served as the 43rd Sergeant-at-Arms for over 40 years. Tue, 06 Mar 2012 13:36:02 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=931 Eight bills completed legislative action during the Senate floor session this morning. Bills completing legislative action include: House Bill 2521, which would eliminate the requirement of serving domestic violence orders by certified mail... Tue, 06 Mar 2012 12:57:50 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=443 CHARLESTON, WV - Senate Majority Whip Richard Browning (D-Wyoming) says HB 4236 is a good bill that will allow schools to produce better students. The bill, passed by the Senate today, will phase-in a new teacher evaluation process and institutes a comprehensive teacher mentoring system. Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:22:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=442 CHARLESTON - The Women's Caucus of the West Virginia House of Delegates is hosting 10 women legislators and political leaders from around the world this week as part of a conference arranged by the Washington D.C.-based Women's Democracy Network. Mon, 05 Mar 2012 13:55:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=930 The Senate suspended the constitutional rule requiring that a bill read three separate days to pass House Bill 4236. The bill would establish a new system of performance evaluations of professional personnel. Mon, 05 Mar 2012 12:35:19 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=929 White coats were prevalent at the Capitol today in honor of Pharamcy Day at the Legislature. The House additionally took a moment to adopt House Resolution 35, which honors and celebrates the life and laments the death of Larry Willis Border. Mon, 05 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=928 The Senate adopted several resolutions during today's floor session. House Resolution 48 recognized Mesolthelioma Awareness Day at the Legislature. House Resolution 49 recognized one of the state's oldest institutions, West Liberty University. Fri, 02 Mar 2012 13:06:55 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=927 Five bills were read on third reading, three of which have completed legislative action and now head to the Governor for approval. Senate Bill 385, which expands the definition of "computer" in commission of certain crimes, Senate Bill 429, which relates to motor vehicle classifications... Fri, 02 Mar 2012 12:44:12 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Wrapup/2012/issue_07/wrapup.cfm Traditionally, the West Virginia Legislature is a citizens' legislature comprised of average citizens representing the interests of the public. Elected officials have backgrounds in a wide range of professions from physicians to educators, coal miners to lawyers, insurance agents to nurses. Thu, 01 Mar 2012 15:05:30 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/House/Speaker/news_releases.cfm?input=121 CHARLESTON - Members of the House of Delegates today honored Chief Doorkeeper John A. Roberts, who after 30 years working for the Legislature is retiring at the close of regular session. Thu, 01 Mar 2012 15:01:30 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=925 The House opened today's floor session with House Resolution 34, which honored and paid tribute to the House of Delegates Doorkeeper, John A. Roberts. The resolution was given upon notice he will retire upon the conclusion of session this year. Roberts became an employee of the West Virginia House of Delegates in 1982 Thu, 01 Mar 2012 12:52:30 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=924 The Senate completed legislative action on House Bill 4037 during the afternoon floor session. The bill relates to the professional and occupational licensure and registration of former and current members of the armed forces of the United States. Thu, 01 Mar 2012 12:39:40 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=923 This afternoon's floor session began with the adoption of Senate Resolution 46 which honored and affirmed sister-state relationship between West Virginia and Taiwan Province, Republic of China. The Senate also passed 30 bills. Wed, 29 Feb 2012 13:44:34 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=440 CHARLESTON - Kanawha Delegate Bonnie Brown was honored by the West Virginia Human Rights Commission for “Advancing Civil Rights Through Advocacy” during a ceremony at the state Culture Center. Wed, 29 Feb 2012 17:20:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=922 Today marks the 50th day of the 80th regular session. This day has been labeled "cross-over day," which means today is the last day legislators can consider bills or joint resolutions on third reading in the house of origin, excluding the budget bill and supplementary appropriation bills. Wed, 29 Feb 2012 13:15:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=920 Several Delegates including the Speaker of the House were moved to speak in favor of the bill regarding mine safety during the floor session this morning. After many heartfelt remarks, House Bill 4351 passed unanimously. Tue, 28 Feb 2012 13:45:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=439 CHARLESTON, WV (February 22, 2012) - The West Virginia House of Delegates has issued a Legislative Citation recognizing the National Organization of Black Elected Legislative Women (NOBEL) and its support of Comcast's innovative Internet Essentials program, the nation's largest and most comprehensive broadband adoption program. Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:45:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=437 Charleston, WV - In an effort to support McDowell County, the West Virginia AFL-CIO has donated $6,500 to the Council of the Southern Mountains, a community action agency helping low-income families achieve self-sufficiency in the southern part of the state. The donation will aid in building new housing in the county. The new housing development is part of the “Reconnecting McDowell” project. Fri, 24 Feb 2012 16:20:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=915 During today's floor session, the Senate recognized Senate Resolution 43 which memorializes Lloyd Jackson, former Senate President, who passed away last year. Fri, 24 Feb 2012 13:17:32 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=913 Members of the House were treated to the sounds of the Glenville State College Bluegrass Band at the start of session. Following the performances, members presented a citation to the Chemical Valley Rollergirls Fri, 24 Feb 2012 12:47:51 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=436 CHARLESTON, WV - Senator Douglas Facemire (D-Braxton) says pay raises for non-uniformed State Police employees are long overdue. SB 627 would increase the State Police forensic lab tech salary $10,000 per year and the salary of civilian employees by $4,000 per year. Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:41:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=435 CHARLESTON, WV - Senate Majority Leader John Unger (D-Berkeley) says to date, the legislative session has been very successful and he expects the trend to continue. Unger says there is still plenty of time to deal with important pieces of legislation like mine safety, substance abuse and texting while driving. Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:35:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=911 Several House Resolutions were adopted on the floor today including House Resolution 87, which names the four mile stretch of highway in Mineral County after war hero and Purple Heart recipient Sargent James "Aubrey" Stewart. Thu, 23 Feb 2012 13:03:19 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=910 In today's floor session the Senate passed two bills and read seven for the first time. Senate Bill 501 was passed. This bill would require health insurance coverage of hearing aids for individuals under eighteen years of age. Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:53:59 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=909 The Senate opened session today with a performance from the Putnam Family of Looneyville, West Virginia. Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:05:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=908 The House was treated to a musical performance this morning by students of the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and Blind in Romney. The students performed through sign, voice and musical instruments the songs,“Big Yellow Taxi” Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:45:46 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=907 During this morning's floor session, the House completed legislative action on Senate Bill 30, which would provide additional means to notify the DMV of the purchase of a junked vehicle. Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:02:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=906 The Senate passed 10 bills today on third reading, majority of which passed unanimously during today's floor session. Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:48:30 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=433 CHARLESTON, WV - Senate Judiciary Chairman Corey Palumbo (D-Kanawha) says SB 518 makes it very clear who can and cannot run for public office. Mon, 20 Feb 2012 14:45:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=432 Charleston, WV - The West Virginia Senate adopted Senate Resolution 33, designating February 20, 2012 Jefferson County Day at the Capitol, along with two additional resolutions concerning Jefferson County. Mon, 20 Feb 2012 14:40:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=905 The adoption of several Senate Resolutions took up a majority of time during today's session. One such resolution revolved around honoring veteran's visiting today's floor session. Senate Resolution 32 designates February 20 as Veterans Visibility Day. Mon, 20 Feb 2012 13:10:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=904 The House recognized our state's Veterans today. House Resolution 26 designated Feb. 20, 2012 as Veterans Visibility Day in the Legislature. Per capita, more citizens from West Virginia have served in our nation's armed forces than from any other state. Mon, 20 Feb 2012 13:05:29 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Wrapup/2012/issue_05/wrapup.cfm Legislators have recently made historic and monumental strides at the Capitol. The state's last unfunded liability, other post-employment benefits (OPEB), has been resolved through swift legislative action with the passage of Senate Bill 469. Thu, 16 Feb 2012 13:40:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=900 During today's floor session, the House completed legislative action on Senate Bill 209 and Senate Bill 210. Senate Bill 209 will update terms in the Personal Income Tax Act and Senate Bill 210 will update terms in the Corporation Net Income Tax Act. Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:59:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=898 Today the Senate adopted two resolutions. Senate Resolution 30 Designates February 16 as West Virginia Generation Day. Senate Resolution 31 was adopted by the Senate to recognize George Washington Highschool Junior Ryan Switzer. Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:54:05 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/House/Speaker/news_releases.cfm?input=120 CHARLESTON - House Speaker Rick Thompson said he is pleased to see that the state Supreme Court is seeking public comment on proposed rules for a statewide Business Court in West Virginia. Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:01:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/House/Speaker/news_releases.cfm?input=119 CHARLESTON - The House of Delegates today honored West Virginia civil rights pioneer J.R. Clifford today with the adoption of a resolution noting his many accomplishments as an attorney, scholar and activist. Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=897 In today's floor session the House completed legislation on House Bill 4291 and it is awaiting the Governors signature. This will authorize the Supreme Court of Appeals to determine which county law libraries are being used and should be continued as an obligation of the state. Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=896 A special resolution in the Senate declared today to be Nurses Unity Day, and it was stated that one in every 43 West Virginians is a nurse. Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:27:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=894 The Senate was especially busy today with the passage of 11 bills that will now be sent to the House for consideration. Of those passed, Senate Bill 166 would make it a felony to disarm a correctional officer, and Senate Bill 208 would repeal the Telecommunications Tax Act. Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:27:41 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=893 In today's floor session the House adopted House Resolution 20, which commemorates the passing of Andrew "Andy" Clark Sr. who was a prominent community, business and civic leader of Princeton, West Virginia. Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:23:10 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=892 In this afternoons floor session, the House passed three bills. The first was House Bill 4012, which would remove the Commissioner of the Bureau for Public Health from certain boards. House Bill 4101 was also passed. Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:55:29 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=890 The Senate welcomed a very special guest during recess today as Bobby Dale Earnhardt made an appearance on the Senate floor. The grandson of NASCAR legend, Dale Earnhardt, was at the Capitol to announce the start of his own NASCAR career... Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:10:02 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=889 In today's floor session, the members of the House presented a citation to representatives from colleges throughout the state. Three bills were also read for a second time. Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=888 One of the first actions taken on the Senate floor today involved completeing Senate Bill 469, also known as the OPEB bill. The bill passed unanimously, with two Senators absent. The bill now awaits the Governor's signature. If signed, the bill will eliminate the last unfunded liability West Virginia faces. Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:37:41 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=887 This afternoon Senate Bill 469 passed the House, regarding Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB). After a lengthy debate and discussion the bill was passed, 83-17. This bill will now go back to the Senate for final approval. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:42:08 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=886 The Senate floor session was brief today with 12 bills introduced and four bills advanced to second reading. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:18:10 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=428 CHARLESTON, WV - Senator Ron Stollings (D - Boone) co-sponsored SB 54. It prohibits tattoos for anyone under the age of sixteen and requires in person, parental consent for teens between the ages of 16 and 18. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:43:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=885 Heated debates fueled conversation today in the House. Senate Bill 469, regarding Other Post-Employment Benefits was the main topic of discussion. Delegates debated back and forth between several proposed amendments, finally advancing the bill to third reading with one amendment. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:19:59 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=427 CHARLESTON, WV - Senator Orphy Klempa (D - Ohio) says he is pleased that the senate passed SB 222 because it provides more protection for victims of domestic violence. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=884 The Senate passed six bills during the morning floor session. Passed bills include: Senate Bill 54, which would prohibit minors under the age of 16 from obtaining a tattoo Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:42:50 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=882 In celebration of the 35th anniversary of the West Virginia Women's Commission, the Senate adopted Senate Resolution 24, recognizing Feb. 7, 2012 as Women's Day in the West Virginia Legislature. Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:40:59 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=880 The House opened today with a singing performance by Pikeville High School students. Delegates also took a moment to award a citation honoring "Women's Day" at the capitol. Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:34:51 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=879 The Senate concurred with House amendments and passed Senate Bill 165, which would create criminal offense of sexual contact on incarcerated persons by correctional employees, with or without consent. Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:04:53 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=878 Fifteen bills were introduced into the House during today's session. In addition to the introduction of bills, the House also presented House Resolution 18, which will designate February 6 as "correction day" at the Capitol. Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:53:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=424 CHARLESTON, WV - Senate Majority Whip Richard Browning (D-Wyoming) says despite any concerns he may have had with the texting bill, he supports it, just as he has in the past two years. Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:08:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=877 Today in the House, Delegates honored the Lincoln County Highschool womens softball team. The Lady Panthers won the Class AAA softball State Tournament this past spring, which was the school's first title in any sport since opening in 2006. Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:32:33 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=876 U.S. Senator Joe Manchin paid a visit to the Senate floor session this morning. During a brief session, six bills were introduced, six were read for the second time and two were read for the first time. Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:31:49 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Wrapup/2012/issue_03/wrapup.cfm While some citizens might believe that the daily House and Senate floor sessions are where the majority of the action happens in the Legislature, the reality is that these floor sessions deal with legislation on its way through an exhaustive and comprehensive committee process. Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:38:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Senate1/President/releases.cfm?input=118 CHARLESTON, WV - Senate President Jeff Kessler (D-Marshall) says the 2012 regular session has been very productive. The session is not even at the half-way point and one significant piece of legislation has passed both chambers; HB 4068 - the cracker bill, and another, SB 161 - OPEB, is in the House of Delegates for review. Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:47:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Senate1/President/releases.cfm?input=117 CHARLESTON, WV - Senate President Jeff Kessler (D-Marshall) says he supports a ban on texting while driving and is positive it will be passed by the Senate. Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:42:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=875 A total of seventeen bills were introduced in the House Today. Two of the bils introduced were House Bill 4101, which would create an exemption from licensure as an adjuster or certain individuals who conduct data entry into an automated claims adjudication system... Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:38:33 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=872 The Senate read four bills for the first time today, including Senate Bill 211, which would create the secondary offense of operating a motor vehicle while using a wireless communications device without hands-free technology, and a primary offense of texting while operating a motor vehicle. Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:18:22 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=420 CHARLESTON, WV - Senate Finance Chairman Roman Prezioso (D-Marion) says the passage of SB 469 means that West Virginia remains fiscally responsible and is serious about paying its debts. Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:11:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=871 At the start of today's session, the House honored Spencer resident, Drew Miller, who ran from Long Beach, California to Spencer, West Virginia to raise money and awareness for the Wounded Warrior Project. Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:09:35 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=870 During today's floor session six bills passed in the Senate. Among those bills was Senate Bill 469, relating to other post employment-benefits. This bill would create a plan to fund the state portion of the health care benefits to for state retirees. Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:02:03 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=868 Two bills passed the Senate today, including Senate Bill 202 which would permit the Division of Forestry to enter into stewardship contracts with U. S. Forest Service. Senate Bill 331 also passed this afternoon. Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:29:16 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=869 Senate Bill 165 was read on the House floor today, which would prohibit correctional officers from engaging in sexual acts with prisoners who are incarcerated, or on parole or probation. Several bills were read on second reading today including... Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:29:26 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=419 Charleston, WV - The West Virginia Senate passed a bill today aimed at promoting adult responsibility in protecting children from abuse and neglect. Senate Majority Leader John Unger II (D - Berkeley) co-sponsored the bill, which was sent to the House of Delegates. Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:57:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=867 Two bills were passed in the House today including House Bill 4107 which will provide for online training of firefighters as well as provide proper safety equipment, and House Bill 4250, which relates to the Uniform Real Property Electronic Recording Act. Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:02:12 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=864 In this afternoon's floor session the Senate passed six bills and introduced 11. The Senate also adopted Senate Resolution 14, which honors Pineville Volunteer Fire Department for their heroic actions while saving the life of Marcia McKinney, who was trapped on the second story of the fully engulfed house. Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:37:43 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=863 At the start of today's session,Delegate Armstead welcomed Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito to the the floor, and also passed two bills. Fri, 27 Jan 2012 11:58:39 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=862 The bills included Senate Bill 161, which would make it mandatory to report child abuse or neglect. The bill would also increase penalties for those who do not report it. Fri, 27 Jan 2012 11:55:15 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Wrapup/2012/issue_02/wrapup.cfm For 60 consecutive days each year the West Virginia Legislature meets in a regular session to consider legislation and pass a budget for the state's next fiscal year. Already this session lawmakers have worked together to complete legislation on House Bill 4086, a bill designed to improve West Virginia's chances to attract a "cracker" plant. Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:44:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=861 The House gave a long standing applause in honor of former prisoner of war, Jessica Lynch, today during session. Lynch was visiting the Capitol today to serve as ambassador for the Imagination Library program. Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:44:01 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=860 In this afternoon's floor session, the Senate introduced seven bills and read two for a second time. Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:35:52 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=859 Today marked the 9th annual Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol. Young research talent from across the state filled the Rotunda and hallways, showcasing posters on research in areas ranging from studies of how odors impact stress levels to biomass as fuel to the study of nanoparticles. Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:25:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=858 Today, the Senate completed the first piece of legislation for the 80th regular session. Senate Bill 4086, also known as "the cracker plant bill," will provide tax incentives for companies willing to locate large scale industrial plants in West Virginia. Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:01:37 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=856 The House passed four bills and introduced 22 in a brief floor session this morning. Little discussion accompanied the passage of four bills in the House today. Passed bills passed include: Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:10:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=417 CHARLESTON - Newly appointed Delegate Phillip Diserio of Brooke County was sworn in this morning by House Speaker Rick Thompson in the House of Delegates Chamber. Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:10:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=855 This morning, Phillip Diserio was appointed to fill the final vacancy in the House. Diserio will represent the 2nd Distict for the remainder of former Delegate Tim Ennis' term. Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:39:08 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=854 The Senate introduced resolutions 8 and 9, which welcomed the Spring Valley High School Volleyball team and The Concord University Baseball Team. In addition to welcoming resolutions, the Senate introduced 21 bills, passed four bills... Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:30:18 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=416 CHARLESTON, WV - Senate Education Chairman Robert H. Plymale (D-Wayne) announced today that the Senate Education Committee passed Senate Bill 103 which addresses the ten elements of high quality digital learning. The committee passed this bill out with the recommendation it do pass on Thursday, January 19, 2012. Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:25:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=853 The Senate passed two bills today, and laid over Senate Bill 118 onto second reading. Senate Bill 30 and Senate Bill 96 were among the two bills passed in the Senate today. In addition to the bills passed, the Senate also advanced Senate Bill 7 to second reading. Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:26:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=852 The House passed two bills this afternoon: House Bill 4078 and House Bill 4086. House Bill 4078, would extend certain deadlines mandated actions regarding higher education personnel. House Bill 4086 passed after the constitutional rule that a bill be read on three separate days was suspended. The bill would designate certain property as a qualified capital addition to a manufacturing facility. Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:23:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=851 Today in the Senate, 23 bills were introduced and several bills were advanced to third reading. Senate Bill 30 would provide for alternative means for the initial purchaser of junked vehicles to notify the division in compliance with the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System. Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:16:27 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=850 The House adopted House , House Resolution 8 identifying their opposition of the Supreme Court's interpretation of the Constitution in Citizens United relating to the constitutional rights of corporations. Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:16:27 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=849 The challenge of achieving healthy lifestyles and physical fitness was extended to West Virginians today with the start of a new program called the West Virginia Physical Activity Plan. Athletes, dancers, and promoters of health and wellness from all over the state convened at the Capitol today to offer free advice and live demonstrations as to how West Virginians can get in on the action. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:05:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=415 West Virginia legislators today introduced a bill that will dramatically reduce "meth labs" and protect public health by making products containing the substance pseudoephedrine prescription-only medications. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:27:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=841 The Senate honored West Virginia Fitness Day today with Senate Resolution 6. Representatives from the West Virginia Activity Plan Coordinating Committee were among guests on the Senate floor today. In addition to Resolution SR6, Seven Senate Bills... Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:02:19 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=840 This morning, the House introduced 110 bills. Among them was House Bill 4063, which would authorize the Human Rights Commission to proclaim a legislative rule regarding housing discrimination against people with disabilities who use assistance animals. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:55:14 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=414 CHARLESTON, WV - Senator Ronald Miller (D-Greenbrier) says, as the newly appointed Agriculture Chairman, he wants the committee to be proactive on farming issues instead of reactive. He says the Agriculture Committee is starting out by looking at carry-over bills from last year. Wed, 18 Jan 2012 16:22:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/News_release/newsrelease_RecordView1.cfm?RecordID=413 CHARLESTON, WV - Senate Majority Whip Richard Browning (D-Wyoming) says it's time to recognize that substance abuse is a societal problem that affects the entire state. He says the recommendations in the recently released report by the Advisory Council on Substance Abuse are a good start. Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:38:00 EST http://www.legis.state.wv.us/daily_sum/today.cfm?blogentry=839 Senate Bill 96 was advanced to first reading today on the Senate Floor. Senate Bill 96 would disqualify jurors who have committed a crime that met or exceeded the sentencing of one year, or any crime involving dishonesty or false statement. Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:43:00 EST