The West Virginia Legislature’s supermajority of Republicans has revived the idea of phasing out the state’s personal income tax. With the regular session scheduled to begin this week, the idea
West Virginia Legislative Photography
When Gov. Jim Justice said in a debate last year he would sign a nondiscrimination act for gay and transgender West Virginians if it reaches his desk, some Republican leaders called the moment a “turning point” for the state’s political landscape and LGBTQ community.
This law, most recently branded the “Fairness Act,” would bar discrimination against people, regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity, in employment, housing and public places.
Advocates say the legislation has widespread, bipartisan support this year. Yet, despite being introduced almost every session for the last two decades, the bill rarely ends up reaching the House or Senate floor for a final vote.
Today
Partly cloudy skies during the morning hours will become overcast in the afternoon. High 69F. Winds light and variable..
Tonight
Partly cloudy in the evening. Increasing clouds with periods of showers after midnight. Low around 50F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%. Updated: April 13, 2021 @ 12:12 am
Leaders from both parties in the West Virginia Senate on Tuesday credited Republican Gov. Jim Justice for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic but some cautioned that more can be done, including helping small businesses.
The House of Delegates gathered for a one-day organizational session on Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021.
Almost a year after adjourning last March, lawmakers returned to the state capitol early in January to prepare for the upcoming legislative session.
But this time, they wore face masks. Some had to work away from the floor, in spectator galleries, apart from the colleagues with whom they normally would sit side-by-side.
West Virginia legislators say they’re prepared to convene in less than a month. Despite the coronavirus pandemic, leaders say they’re aiming to complete a 60-day in-person session. Meanwhile, other U.S. statehouses in Mississippi and Missouri already have reported COVID-19 outbreaks and cases this year.