Civic-focused stories covering politics, voting rights, public policy, and governance within Appalachia. This category also includes discussions on Black representation in politics and initiatives that encourage civic engagement among Appalachian and Black communities.
HB 4982 has already passed the House and gone to Governor Patrick Morrisey’s desk. It would give the existing Office of Healthy Lifestyles greater authority, create the Healthy Lifestyle Fund and require Medicaid recipients to have access to additional programs.
The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced bills targeting transgender West Virginians and drag performances. It also pulled a bill that would have forbidden state entities from engaging in any discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Senate Bill 1037 would reinstate the death penalty as a possible punishment for people convicted of first-degree murder with aggravating circumstances.
Some lawmakers expressed concern that SB 927 would unfairly take away local control.
House Bill 4587 would prohibit state funds, including student aid, from going to “low-earning” degree programs.
Senate Bill 879, introduced by the only Latino woman in the Legislature, is not the first sign that elected officials want the office gone.
Black people are significantly more likely to be committed to psychiatric hospitals against their will.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey has partnered with ICE to hold immigrant detainees in West Virginia jails.
