Energy Legislation Promises Jobs, Environmentalists Heed Caution

On The Legislature Today, we take a closer look at energy legislation moving through this session. Host Andrea Lannom chats with Senate Energy, Industry and Mining Committee Chairman Sen. Randy Smith, R-Tucker, as well as Executive Director of the West Virginia Rivers Coalition Angie Rosser.

As lawmakers readied themselves Tuesday night to complete action on a bill calling for pay raises for teachers, school service personnel and state police, Gov. Jim Justice released a statement criticizing state leaders of teacher unions, as well as Democrats – saying they are grandstanding in an election year. Senior Reporter Dave Mistich brings us a reaction to the passage of the bill, the night before the scheduled work stoppage is set to begin.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KungoITc_Q

Hundreds gathered for an Energy Jobs Rally at the Capitol, so we invited Sen. Randy Smith, R-Tucker, Chair of the Energy, Industry and Mining Committee to join us this evening to discuss several bills under consideration.

Additionally, several of these energy bills are raising concerns among environmentalists. Angie Rosser, Executive Director of the West Virginia Rivers Coalition, addresses some of these issues.

The Legislature Today is West Virginia’s source for daily legislative news and information. The only live television program covering the West Virginia Legislature, the broadcast features reports from the Senate, House and committee meetings with in-depth interviews and analysis of the legislative process in West Virginia.

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