Legislative Action by the Numbers:

1136 bills introduced in the House of Delegates
637 bills introduced in the State Senate
131 bills have passed the House of Delegates
153 bills have passed the State Senate 
25 bills have completed legislative action and are waiting the Governor's review and signature 

My View from the Capitol:

As predicted, teachers filled the State Capitol Thursday and Friday as the first teachers strike in nearly 30 years began. Legislators planned to go on with normal business. Committee meetings were also going on as usual, even as teachers chanted and protested the recent pay raise and PEIA situation. 

Teachers from all 55 counties walked out over wages and health care costs. Even as the capitol crowd surged, many more were picketing outside their local schools.  

The walkout could continue if matters can’t be resolved.  

On Wednesday evening, the eve of the walkout, Gov. Jim Justice signed a bill with a pay raise averaging two percent next year for teachers, service personnel, and state police. Each group would receive another average one percent raise the following year with teachers in line for another one percent raise the third year.

In addition, the Public Employees Insurance Agency Finance Board met this week and froze the current plan. That will cost the state an estimated $29 million. But teachers and other public employees say they want serious movement toward long-term stability for the plan.

Other happenings this week at the state house included the second annual energy rally, which was well attended and showcased the numerous contributions the energy sector provides not only to the state, but individual communities as well.  

With only 15 legislative days remaining before the 60-day session adjourns, look for next week to be filled with long committee meetings and split sessions in both chambers. 

Legislative Calendar - Important Days to Remember

First Day - January 10

20th Day - January 28 - Submission of Legislative Rule-Making Review Bills due

35th Day - February 13 - Last day to introduce bills in the House

41st Day - February 19 - Last day to introduce bills in the Senate

47th Day - February 25 - Bills due out of committee in house of origin to ensure three full days for readings

50th Day - February 28 - Last day to consider bills on third reading in house of origin. Does not apply to the budget bill or supplemental appropriation bills.

60th Day - March 10 - Adjournment at midnight

News From Around the State

House Approves Funding Stream for Future PEIA Costs

Attorney General: Teacher Strike is Illegal

With Natural Gas Bills Flowing, Industry Rallies at Capitol

House Passes Bill to Reduce Number of State Regulations

Legislature Passes Pay Raise Bill Starting with Two Percent Next Year

PEIA Board Freezes State Workers Health Care Plan

With No Shortage of Sponsors, Bill is Meant to Help Shore Up PEIA in Coming Years

Groups Push for Drilling Royalties Bill to Move Forward