Leftover from last issue
Fiction / Truth?
If “fiction is the lie that tells the truth,” can it not be said, “Truth is the reality that reveals the lie?”
The ‘fiction is the lie . . .’ quote is attributed to multiple sources, including Albert Camus (1913-1960), French philosopher, author, dramatist, journalist, world federalist, and political activist. In, he Stranger, Camus wrote, “fiction is the lie through which we tell the truth.”
Boastings
West Virginia: A Proud Home to Over 100,000 Veterans
WV News Report / Nov 11, 2024
West Virginia is home to a strong and proud veteran community, with over 100,000 veterans residing in the state.
This accounts for approximately 7.2% of the state’s population, surpassing the national average of 6% as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau. The significance of veterans in West Virginia underscores the state’s deep-rooted respect and appreciation for military service.
Professional Accomplishment
Emily Calandrelli, the 100th woman in space, talks Blue Origin mission
Emily Calandrelli joins “CBS Mornings Plus” after recently becoming the 100th woman ever in space. She and her Blue Origin crewmates traveled over 62 miles above sea level during their mission last month.
Calandrelli, a West Virginia native, is the first woman astronaut from Mountain State and 100th woman to go into space.
Here are the top 10 counties to raise a family in West Virginia
by: Amber Baker / by: Amber Baker ‘/ Posted: Dec 12, 2024 / 02:43 PM EST
(WTRF) — Raising a family in today’s economy and social climate can be challenging. Families must prioritize community, affordability, and quality of life, making it crucial to find the best place to raise children.
A recent study by SmartAsset has taken some of the guesswork out of deciding where to find the best place to raise a family.
The study examined four key categories: housing affordability, academic performance of students, availability of recreation and community centers per 1,000 residents, and childcare costs.
Drum roll:
- Monongalia County
- Wood County
- Putnam County
- Hancock County
- Ohio County
- Jackson County
- Pocahontas County
- Grant County
- Raleigh County
- Cabell County
While we are at it..
Best College Towns in America (2025)
Adam McCann, WalletHub Financial Writer / Oct 28, 2024
Based on WalletHub criteria, “Wallet Friendliness,” “Social Environment,” and “Academic & Economic Opportunities.”
# 110 – Morgantown, WV. (Only West Virginia college town listed; 415 total college towns listed.)
And, not to be outdone:
Huntington takes first place in survey of top 25 college towns to retire
Published: Mar. 6, 2024 at 12:57 PM EST
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) – People who live around Huntington know how special it is, and it’s being recognized on a national level now too.
Yahoo! Finance came out with a study to find the top 25 college towns for retirees.
Huntington, West Virginia came in at number one.
https://www.wsaz.com/2024/03/06/huntington-takes-first-place-survey-top-25-college-towns-retire/
The first snowfall of the season at West Virginia’s highest point, Spruce Knob.
https://www.instagram.com/josh_fitzpatrickweather/p/DBM3jQguNKw/
Snowshoe Mountain receives its first snow of the season
SNOWSHOE, W. Va – (October 16, 2024) – Snowshoe Mountain has received its first snow of the season over the past 48 hours, creating a spectacular clash between fall and winter around the region’s largest ski area. Snowshoe has targeted Wednesday, November 27th as the tentative opening date for the 2024/25 winter season.
Resort officials are planning to crank up the resort’s state-of-the-art snowmaking system on Nov. 1 in preparation for the season ahead.
50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION – DEC. 19-22
Snowshoe is planning to party like it’s 1974 in celebration of 50 years of skiing on the mountain. Head to the resort December 19-22 for a variety of throwback fun including après parties, an all gold rail jam, a soul train dance party, live music, fireworks, comedy shows, and much more. Don’t forget to pack that retro ski gear you’ve got stashed away. Take advantage of Snowshoe’s 50th Anniversary Lodging Package to get $50 off each night of your stay and unlock $50 lift tickets. More information about Snowshoe’s 50th Anniversary is available here.
https://www.skisoutheast.com/snowshoe-mountain-receives-first-snowfall-of-the-season/
We are NOW OPEN for skiing/boarding! Snowtubing Park opens Dec. 21st!
Commentary
State Board of Education Decision on Wetzel Right
Dec 14, 2024
The stage is now set: come the 2025-26 school year in Wetzel County, there will be only two high schools instead of four.
Do the Right Things for Schools, Even If It’s Difficult
Nov 20, 2024
Paul Hardesty hit the nail on the head last week regarding lawmakers who say they want to avoid school consolidations and/or see smaller schools for our students.
“Well, guess what … they have the ability to effectuate the change,” he said.
Manchin’s Departure Marks End of an Era in West Virginia
Dec 7, 2024
This week West Virginia prepared for the end of an era, as U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin gave his final speech on the floor of the U.S. Senate after having devoted his life to serving the state’s residents for more than 40 years.
Lawmakers Must Focus on Economy
Sep 26, 2024 — The West Virginia Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Campaign for Jobs Digest includes some ideas about what lawmakers should prioritize.
https://www.theintelligencer.net/opinion/editorials/2024/09/lawmakers-must-focus-on-economy/
News
Top Story
Morrisey meets with multiple state leaders to discuss transition into office
By Aaron Parker / December 11, 2024 – 9:19 pm
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Governor-elect Patrick Morrisey met with multiple state officials Wednesday to discuss the upcoming transition process and policy priorities for the upcoming year.
Morrisey met with Speaker of the House Roger Hanshaw and senate president-elect Randy Smith, and Smith, the longtime coal miner, says Morrisey’s vision excites him and others in the state.
Also see:
Morrisey lays out goals during transition to W.Va. governor
Steven Allen Adams / Nov 13, 2024
CHARLESTON — One week after securing the election for West Virginia’s next governor, Attorney General Patrick Morrisey is hitting the ground running on forming a transition team, soliciting resumes and ideas and working with lawmakers and other state officials to craft a legislative agenda for next year.
Morrisey held a press conference Tuesday morning in the law library of the Attorney General’s Office to lay out his transition agenda over the next nearly 60 days until he takes the oath of office as West Virginia’s 37th governor.
With Morrisey taking office soon, senators talking more about rightsizing government
By Jeff Jenkins / November 10, 2024 – 8:14 am
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Two state senators say now is the time to take a closer look at the state budget and reshape it to meet the needs of West Virginians.
Senate Finance Committee Chairman Eric Tarr. R-Putnam, and reelected Sen. Patricia Rucker, R-Jefferson, said the election of state Attorney General Patrick Morrisey as governor creates that opportunity.
Tucker County’s Smith nominated for next West Virginia Senate president
Steven Allen Adams / Dec 8, 2024
CHARLESTON – Republican members of the West Virginia Senate nominated Senate Energy, Industry and Mining Committee Chairman Randy Smith to be the next Senate president in a Sunday afternoon caucus, while House Speaker Roger Hanshaw was renominated by his GOP colleagues.
Smith, R-Tucker, used three words to describe his reaction to his election by his Senate colleagues Sunday night after a nearly three-hour closed-door meeting of the Senate Republican caucus and two rounds of voting: “Shocked, overwhelmed, humbled.”
Health & Well-being
Legislature could take on a bill aimed at reining in some medical costs affecting PEIA
By Brad McElhinny / December 9, 2024 – 12:40 pm
Members of the state Legislature previewed an action that could play a role in alleviating some medical costs affecting the Public Employees Insurance Agency.
During the next legislative session, lawmakers could consider a bill reining in compensation for some medical providers. The Legislative Oversight Committee on Insurance and PEIA got a brief preview of the bill during a Monday meeting at legislative interims.
PEIA finance board approves rate increases for 2026
By: Lori Kersey – December 5, 2024 5:41 pm
Making two adjustments to their initial plan, the finance board for the West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency on Thursday signed off on roughly $113 million in premium and cost increases for employees during the 2026 fiscal year.
- https://westvirginiawatch.com/2024/12/05/peia-finance-board-approves-rate-increases-for-2026/
WV lawmakers say they have ‘no great plan’ for PEIA during the 2025 session
By: Lori Kersey – November 25, 2024 6:00 am
As West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency members brace for what could be a second year of increased health insurance premiums, state lawmakers say they do not have concrete plans for changes to PEIA during the next legislative session.
School vaccine exemption bills expected in WV next year, face easier pathway with Morrisey
By: Amelia Ferrell Knisely and Lori Kersey – Wednesday November 20, 4 6:00
Republicans in the House and Senate are expected to introduce legislation that would provide exemptions for West Virginia’s strict school immunization laws. (Pedro Vilela | Getty Images)
Justice, now hedging on vaccine effectiveness, says he’s open to RFK Jr. as nation’s health chief
By Brad McElhinny / November 19, 2024 – 2:47 pm
Gov. Jim Justice leads a briefing about the covid-19 pandemic.
When West Virginia was deep in the covid-19 pandemic, Gov. Jim Justice surrounded himself with public health experts and urged state residents to get vaccinated — so much so that he got his own shot live on camera, named the vaccination effort after his own beloved dog and traveled around the state to give away prizes for people getting immunized.
Trump commits to protecting abortion pill access
Dave Lawler, / Adriel Bettelheim / Dec 12, 2024 –Health
President-elect Trump told Time magazine he will ensure the FDA will not block access to abortion pills on his watch, the first time he has made such a commitment.
https://www.axios.com/2024/12/12/trump-abortion-pill-access-commitment-time
Gov. Justice announced the distribution of $40 million in Rural Hospital Grant funding during a ceremony held at Boone Memorial Hospital.
The program, which launched in October following the appropriation of funds by the West Virginia Legislature during the most recent special session, will improve healthcare infrastructure and services at rural hospitals across West Virginia.
View awarded Rural Hospital Grant funding
Millions will see rise in health insurance premiums if federal subsidies expire
The Trump administration is unlikely to extend aid that has cut the cost of exchange plans.
By: Shalina Chatlani – December 12, 2024 6:00 am
Tips given for suicide prevention during West Virginia’s holiday season
by Logan D. Cottrell STAFF WRITER / Dec 9, 2024
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WV News) — As the holiday season brings a rise in loneliness and depression for many, West Virginia Prevention Solutions is stepping up with suicide prevention training and resources aimed at saving lives and fostering community support.
https://www.wvnews.com/news/tips-given-for-suicide-prevention-during-west-virginias-holiday-season/
Education
Interim Report: LOCEA & LOCHHRA
By Cheyenne DeBolt /December 10, 2024
https://blog.wvlegislature.gov/headline/2024/12/10/interim-report-locea-lochhra/
Interim Report: Committee on Education
By Christopher Marshall / December 10, 2024
https://blog.wvlegislature.gov/headline/2024/12/10/interim-report-committee-on-education/
Interim Report: Sunday Meetings Have Education Focus
By Cheyenne DeBolt / November 10, 2024
‘Police cannot help me’ — Teachers ask WV lawmakers to address violent, disruptive student behavior
Lawmakers failed to pass this year’s school discipline bill aimed at helping elementary teachers
By: Amelia Ferrell Knisely – December 9, 2024 4:50 pm
Last week, an elementary student violently attacked Kanawha County principal Stephanie Haynes for 38 minutes.
“Myself, an assistant principal and another staff member are currently covered in bruises because of this child,” she told lawmakers at the Capitol on Monday. “I actually called the police, and if you don’t know this, the police can’t help me.”
West Virginia educators ask for lawmakers help with student behavioral issues in their classrooms
By Morgan Pemberton /December 9, 2024 – 5:36 pm
CHARLESTON, W.Va.—— School principals and teachers came together at the state capitol Monday afternoon during legislative interim committee meetings; to give chilling accounts of behavioral issues they have encountered in their classrooms and pleading for something to be done.
School Closings / Consolidations / Public Charter Schools
State BOE gives approval to school closures in 4 counties
By Jeff Jenkins / December 11, 2024 – 2:48 pm
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The state Board of Education approved school closings in four separate votes Wednesday.
The board voted to close schools in Clay, Preston, Wetzel and Wood counties after presentations from county school superintendents, whose plans were based on declining student enrollment and a corresponding reduction in state funding.
More than a dozen opponents of the Wetzel County plan, which will close Paden City and Hundred high schools after this school year, spoke against the proposal.
https://wvmetronews.com/2024/12/11/state-boe-gives-approval-to-school-closures-in-4-counties/
More concerns raised about additional school closures, consolidations in West Virginia
by: Mark Curtis / Posted: Dec 2, 2024 / 06:07 PM EST
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) — There are more concerns that schools closing and consolidations in West Virginia aren’t over yet.
The issue is likely going to be front and center when the legislature meets in February. A lot of people are putting the blame on one program in particular.
So far this year in West Virginia, school boards have voted to close or consolidate eight schools, and Nicholas County just increased that total to 11 on Monday night. But the state superintendent of schools says that number could rise to 26.
West Virginia State Senator Mike Stuart is asking the same exact thing.
Roane County BOE will look at other options before closing or consolidating two elementary schools
By Morga Pemberton / November 24, 2024 – 12:00 pm
ROANE COUNTY, W.Va.— Roane County Board of Education decided Thursday night to look at other options before they consider consolidating or closing two of their elementary schools.
Richard Duncan, Roane County Schools superintendent, said that the board wanted to keep consolidation for the last resort if nothing else helps.
The board felt strongly that we should not consider any closures or consolidations at this time, use that as a last resort.
Preston County superintendent speaks after board votes to close 2 rural schools
by: Joey Rather, Barbara Ron /Posted: Nov 20, 2024 / 07:50 PM EST
Updated: Nov 20, 2024 / 07:50 PM EST
KINGWOOD, W.Va. (WBOY) — As the population of West Virginia continues to decrease, so does the number of schools across the state.
On Monday night, the Preston County Board of Education voted to close Fellowsville Elementary School and Rowlesburg School; both votes were a 3-2 decision.
As more schools are up for closure, state board members point to population loss, financial constraints
By Brad McElhinny /November 14, 2024 – 12:04 am
In a difficult discussion about closing West Virginia schools because of declining enrollment, a former state senator now serving on the state school board took issue with lawmakers who lament the loss of community schools without taking action that could alleviate their financial pressures.
“It rings hollow to me when legislators go — and I’m probably going to offend two of my friends — but when they go in the paper and they send letters here and say they want smaller schools. Well, guess what ladies and gentlemen, they have the ability to effectuate the change,” said Paul Hardesty, whose role on the state school board calls for him to be a liaison to the Legislature.
State senator seeks legislative solution to halt school closures in West Virginia
by BAILEE TUCKER
Sat, November 23rd 2024 at 11:16 PM
Updated Sun, November 24th 2024 at 1:00 PM
. . . “Others are wondering where money from the state is going.
“The West Virginia state budget has been a billion dollars in surplus for the last at least two years, if not more. Why are we having this discussion?” another woman asked.
Residents reaching out to West Virginia Professional Charter School Board amid closures, consolidations
by Steven Allen Adams Parkersburg News and Sentinel / Nov 20, 2024
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Members of the West Virginia Professional Charter School Board may have an answer for parents upset about school closures and consolidations in their counties: Apply to convert those schools to public charter schools.
James Paul, executive director of the Professional Charter School Board, told board members during a virtual meeting Wednesday that parents from three counties, including individuals in Randolph and Wetzel counties, have reached out to him over the last several weeks about how to save schools slated for closure and consolidation.
Some public schools in danger of closure could consider converting to charter schools, officials suggest
By Brad McElhinny November 20, 2024 – 1:19 pm / (Pixabay)
Representatives of the West Virginia Professional Charter School Board say communities that are having to consider shutting down local public schools are asking whether an alternative might be to convert them into charter schools.
Charter schools receive financial support from the state’s public education system and are given greater operational latitude in exchange for the possibility of losing their right to operate if they fail. There are six charter schools in West Virginia now, although two of those are virtual. Two more are set to open in fall 2025.
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First Lady Cathy Justice attends annual West Virginia Leaders of Education Conference
12/8/2024
WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, WV – First Lady Cathy Justice joined school administrators, superintendents, and educational leaders from across the state at the 2024 West Virginia Leaders of Education Conference. Hosted by the West Virginia K-12 Principals Association (WVPA), this highly anticipated annual event brings together professionals dedicated to preserving and advancing public education.
Also see:
WV Dept. of Ed. Welcomes Students for a Day of Coding at the State Capitol
December 9, 2024
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) will host the second annual Country Roads Codes Day at the West Virginia Capitol Upper Rotunda on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. Students from 11 schools will conduct hands-on coding and robotics activities for legislators and the general public.
https://wvde.us/wv-dept-of-ed-welcomes-students-for-a-day-of-coding-at-the-state-capitol/
U.S. Education Department pings states, schools to set policies on cellphone use
By: Shauneen Miranda – December 3, 2024 1:44 pm
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Education Department called on every state, school and district on Tuesday to adopt policies on cellphone use in schools.
Wheeling To Spend Opioid Settlement Funds on Cell Phone Analysis Tool
Nov 20, 2024 / ERIC AYRES / Staff Writer
Wheeling Police Chief Shawn Schwertfeger speaks before members of Wheeling City Council on Tuesday night in support of the purchase of a new cell phone analysis system that will help local law enforcement officials to quickly obtain data in drug investigations, including fatal overdose investigations.
Public-private partnership brings GameChanger to Randolph County schools
Tygarts Valley Middle/High, Elkins Middle and Elkins High Schools to become GameChanger schools
ELKINS, W.Va. — A public/private partnership between GameChanger, Randolph County Schools, the city of Elkins, the Randolph County Commission and MegaCorp is responsible for bringing the GameChanger Opioid and Substance Misuse Prevention Education Initiative to Tygarts Valley Middle High, Elkins Middle and Elkins High Schools for the 2024-2025 school year.
Summers County Board of Education moving forward following 2024 school levy defeat
By Katherine Skeldon / FacebookTwitterEmailMessage / November 10, 2024 – 4:27 pm
HINTON, W.Va. — President of the Summers County Board of Education Greg Angell says despite the school excess levy the board has been pushing for almost 50 years was defeated yet again that would bring more funding for school resources to the county, it won’t stop its students from receiving a good, quality education they deserve,
Higher Learning
West Virginia Community and Technical College System reports 7.8% enrollment surge for fall 2024
by Noah Jeffries STAFF WRITER / Dec 16, 2024
West Virginia’s Community and Technical College System (WVCTCS) saw a 7.8% increase in fall 2024 enrollment, surpassing the national community college growth rate of 4.7%
Temporary FAFSA requirement suspensions, increased state funding, and expanded needs-based grants contributed significantly to the enrollment surge.
Education Editorials
Commentary
With 90% of West Virginia’s children in public schools, lawmakers must prioritize them
Leann Ray / November 19, 2024 5:55 am
The state school board last week approved closing or consolidating six schools in Kanawha County because of dwindling student numbers.
WV MetroNews reported that 26 other schools statewide could close next year as the public school student population continues to decline.
What will our new governor and state Legislature do to help with this?
Likely nothing.
Note: Commentary addresses Hope Scholarship.
Business Manufacturing Commerce
WVMA panel: Energy, childcare are top challenges facing West Virginia manufacturing industry
by Damian Phillips STAFF WRITER / Dec 12, 2024
BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. (WV News) — During the West Virginia Manufacturers Association’s winter conference, business owners, legislators and economic development advocates discussed the state’s challenges in attracting and retaining businesses.
Sen. Glenn Jeffries, R-Putnam, center, accepts the West Virginia Manufacturers Association’s Champion of Industry award prior to the panel at the organization’s winter conference. The award was presented by Maribeth Anderson of Antero Resources and Bill Bissett, WVMA president.
Deskins: Labor force participation remains West Virginia’s ‘biggest economic challenge’
by Charles Young SENIOR STAFF WRITER / Oct 15, 2024
FAIRMONT, W.Va. (WV News) — Low labor force participation, the percentage of the population working or currently looking for work, is one of West Virginia’s long-standing economic impediments.
Mississippi is the only state in the nation with lower labor force participation than West Virginia, Dr. John Deskins, director of the West Virginia University Bureau of Business and Economic Research said Tuesday.
West Virginia is one of the worst states to work in, new report says
by: Amber Baker
Posted: Aug 8, 2024 / 03:10 PM EDT / Updated: Aug 8, 2024 / 03:10 PM EDT
West Virginia recently ranked the 2nd best state to retire, but where does the Mountain State fall when it comes to those many working years before retirement?
The study looked at data based on the percentage of employed individuals represented by unions and the states with the highest work fatality rates in 2022.
Retirement:
Roofing Ranked as Least Desired Job in West Virginia: Survey Highlights High-Risk Occupations
A recent survey conducted in September 2024 identified roofing as the least desirable job in West Virginia. Polling 3,000 participants across a range of age groups, genders, and regions, the survey revealed that roofing is viewed as one of the most physically demanding and high-risk occupations in the state.
Roads Infrastructure
Gov. Justice announces $58 million contract, breaks ground on next section of King Coal Highway
11/4/2024
BLUEFIELD, WV — Gov. Jim Justice today announced the award of a $58 million contract for the construction of a 2.5-mile stretch of the King Coal Highway, connecting Littlesburg to the Mercer County Airport.
Gov. Justice announces $77 million contract for major bridge project on Corridor H, will complete Kerens to Parsons section
11/4/2024
BLUEFIELD, WV — Gov. Jim Justice today announced the contract award for Roaring Run Bridge, completing the Kerens to Parsons section of Corridor H. Triton Construction Inc. has been awarded the over $77 million project.
$6.3 million in funding announced to boost transportation funding in W.Va.
Dec 11, 2024
Washington, d.c. – U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, I-W.Va., member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced Wednesday $6,395,381 from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the West Virginia Department of Transportation. The funding is made possible through the State Electronic Data Collection grant program and will support upgrading and improving crash data systems to inform transportation safety strategies.
A slow wait for high-speed internet
Editorials / Dec 3, 2024
Mountain State residents who have — for years now — been waiting for the fulfillment of promises that high-speed broadband access would be brought to all of us were likely not surprised to learn there is another obstacle to overcome.
https://www.weirtondailytimes.com/opinion/editorials/2024/12/a-slow-wait-for-high-speed-internet/
Energy
Yesterday, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported five states produced more than 70% of the record 113.1 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of U.S. marketed natural gas production in 2023. Two of the five were in the Marcellus/Utica: Pennsylvania (18% of the country’s gas) and West Virginia (8% of the country’s gas). We did some digging and found that when adding the production from PA, WV, and OH, the three together represented 31.5% of all the natural gas produced in the U.S. in 2023. It is an astonishing fact!
https://marcellusdrilling.com/2024/12/pawvoh-produced-nearly-one-third-of-all-u-s-natgas-in-2023/
Gas Pushes Half Of U.S. Power, Leaving Little For Coal
Curtis Tate Published October 8, 2024 – 1:24 pm
Hotter weather, low natural gas prices and new natural gas power plants combined to push gas toward the 50 percent mark in U.S. electricity generation over the summer.
For many years, coal was in that dominant position. It last came close in 2008, but has steadily fallen since, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Last year, coal slid to just 16 percent of U.S. electricity generation.
https://wvpublic.org/gas-pushes-half-of-u-s-power-leaving-little-for-coal/
Aerospace, Batteries And Composite Decking: New Uses For An Old Fuel, Coal
Curtis Tate Published October 9, 2024 – 1:54 pm
In August, Pennsylvania-based Consol Energy announced it would merge with St. Louis-based Arch Resources to form Core Natural Resources. The combined company won’t just produce coal for generating electricity or making steel.
Curtis Tate spoke with Dan Connell, senior vice president for Consol innovations, about what else coal can do.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Aerospace, Batteries And Composite Decking: New Uses For An Old Fuel, Coal
West Virginia takes steps toward nuclear energy development
- by Charles Young SENIOR STAFF WRITER / Dec 7, 2024
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WV News) — Lawmakers in the West Virginia Legislature have taken steps in recent years to clear the way for nuclear energy development in the Mountain State
During October’s special session, a bill was passed that will make the state a U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Agreement State. The legislation follows the passage of Senate Bill 4 in 2022, which repealed a pair of bills passed in 1996 that established the state’s ban on nuclear power plants.
PJM boosts gas in contentious grid plan
By Peter Behr | 12/05/2024 06:56 AM EST
The eastern grid manager would push natural gas generation into action ahead of wind and solar as tech companies ratchet up demand.
Grid operators with PJM Interconnection monitor electricity use across more than a dozen states. PJM Interconnection
The power needs of data centers run by America’s technology giants will open the door to new natural gas-fired generation under a strategy advanced by the largest U.S. grid operator, pushing aside carbon-free wind and solar projects.
Note: PJM officials also addressed the Joint Standing Committee on Energy and Manufacturing Monday, December 9 with representatives making similar remarks.
https://www.eenews.net/articles/pjm-boosts-gas-in-contentious-grid-plan/
State Government/Agencies
Incoming WV House member de Soto arrested for making terroristic threats against lawmakers
By: Amelia Ferrell Knisely – December 12, 2024 11:58 am
The threats followed a closed-door meeting Sunday where Republican House members questioned the truthfulness of Joseph de Soto’s military career and occupation as a physician.
Scot, the above is a developing story. Will need to ensure that latest detail is correct.
Charles Trump resigns state Senate in advance of taking office as West Virginia Supreme Court justice
State Senator Charles Trump, R-Morgan, has resigned that body ahead of being sworn in as a newly-elected state Supreme Court justice.
West Virginia lawmakers discuss new foster care communications portal delay
by: Jordan Mead / Posted: Dec 10, 2024 / Updated: Dec 10, 2024 / 08:34 PM EST
CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) – State lawmakers on the Legislative Commission for Oversight of Health and Human Resources Accountability said new technology will make a world of a difference for foster families across the Mountain State.
SBA awards $65 Million for school projects
December 17, 2024 – 2:31 pm
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The state School Building Authority was able to fund school construction, improvement, or renovation projects in a dozen West Virginia counties for 2024. The latest Needs Grants were announced Tuesday in Charleston.
https://wvmetronews.com/2024/12/17/sba-awards-65-million-for-school-projects/
Lawin’
Study says West Virginia’s tort costs are down thanks to legal reform
CHARLESTON – A new study shows West Virginia’s tort costs declined 20 percent from 2016 to 2022, as its per-household tort costs was the lowest in the nation for 2022.
The study, titled Tort Costs in America: An Empirical Analysis of Costs and Compensation of the U.S. Tort System – Third Edition, was sponsored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform, which owns The West Virginia Record. The study was conducted by the Brattle Group on behalf of ILR and can be viewed here.
Supreme Court rejects bid to pause coal ash rule
The Biden administration rule nonetheless faces an uncertain future under Trump’s EPA.
By Miranda Willson | 12/12/2024 01:26 PM EST
The Supreme Court has declined to temporarily freeze a new rule from the Biden administration that requires the cleanup of coal waste dump sites across the nation.
https://www.eenews.net/articles/supreme-court-rejects-bid-to-pause-coal-ash-rule/
State Supreme Court to hear 4th Circuit appeal in Huntington, Cabell opioid case
By Chris Dickerson / Dec 6, 2024
CHARLESTON – The state Supreme Court will hear arguments in an appeal in Cabell County and Huntington’s case against opioid distributors.
The oral arguments have been scheduled for January 28, according to the state Supreme Court website.
The decision could potentially be worth more than a billion dollars.
McKinsey & Company agrees to pay $650M for helping Purdue Pharma boost opioid sales
Written by ALANNA DURKIN RICHER and STEVE LeBLANC Associated Press, GEOFF MULVIHILL / published on December 17, 2024 – 4:52 PM
(AP) — McKinsey & Company consulting firm has agreed to pay $650 million to settle a federal investigation into its work to help opioids manufacturer Purdue Pharma boost the sales of the highly addictive drug OxyContin, according to court papers filed in Virginia on Friday.
As part of the deal with the U.S. Justice Department, McKinsey will avoid prosecution on criminal charges if it pays the sum and follows certain conditions for five years, including ceasing any work on the sale, marketing or promotion of controlled substances.
Supreme Court ruling in Jefferson County commissioners’ ouster underscores several key points of law
by Matt Harvey MANAGING EDITOR / Nov 18, 2024
The West Virginia Supreme Court underscored key points of law in a ruling upholding the ouster of two Jefferson County commissioners.
Quick take:
- The West Virginia Supreme Court’s ruling on the ouster of two Jefferson County commissioners found that such cases go straight to the Supreme Court, not the Intermediate Court
- https://www.statejournal.com/news/supreme-court-ruling-in-jefferson-county-commissioners-ouster-underscores-several-key-points-of-law/
Supreme Court to hear arguments on youth transgender care ban
Ruling on Tennessee law could shape rights of transgender individuals nationwide, experts said
By Michael Macagnone / Posted December 3, 2024 at 8:17am
The Supreme Court hears oral arguments Wednesday in a dispute over a Tennessee ban on certain medical treatments for transgender children, in a case that could set the boundaries on gender identity policies for states and Congress.
The state’s law prohibits prescription of puberty blockers, hormones and surgery for minors, but only those who are transgender. The justices will weigh whether that violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution because it discriminates . . .
https://rollcall.com/2024/12/03/supreme-court-to-hear-arguments-on-youth-transgender-care-ban/
Locally
Calhoun County residents voice concern over proposed switch from natural gas to propane
GRANTSVILLE, W.Va. (WCHS) — Residents from multiple counties in West Virginia are concerned about a new proposal by Hope Gas to switch some customers over from natural gas to propane and how that change could affect them day-to-day.
The gas company has been ordered by state regulators to hold meetings for customers to explain the plan, show maps and answer questions about the project.
Clarksburg becomes second WV city to approve camping ban targeting the homeless since court ruling
By: Lori Kersey – November 8, 2024 / 12:02 pm
The city of Clarksburg has approved an ordinance prohibiting homeless people from sleeping on its streets. Clarksburg City Council voted 4-2 to approve the camping ban Thursday.
Former state senator Sondra Lucht has died investigation-continues
By Toni Milbourne tmilbourne@journal-news.net / Updated Dec 10, 2024
MARTINSBURG — Carl Lucht, the son of former state Sen. Sondra Lucht, allegedly threw his mother across a room into a wall leading to serious injuries.
According to MetroNews and WEPM, the Berkeley County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed to them that Sondra Lucht has died. The case is still under investigation to determine if the incident involving her son has any connection to her death.
Also refer to:
Charges could be upgraded against son of former state Senator Sondra Lucht following her death
By Brad McElhinny /December 12, 2024 – 1:33 pm