Budget Discussions Underway as 60th Day Nears

On The Legislature Today, the teachers strike is over and schools are back in operation, so now the story at the Capitol is the budget. Both the House and Senate are considering their versions during these last few days of the session. Host Andrea Lannom is joined by Senate Finance Vice Chairman Greg Boso, R-Nicholas, and House Finance Minority Vice Chairman Mick Bates, D-Raleigh, to discuss some differences and some areas where the two chambers can agree.

Lannom also chats with Sen. Mike Woelfel, D-Cabell, on legislation he’s pushed for that are moving through the statehouse related to reporting of sexual abuse of children.

Also in this episode, a bill to establish a Palliative Care Advisory Coalition passed the House Wednesday and is on its way to the Governor’s desk for a signature. This type of care is focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. The goal of this kind of care is to improve quality of life for both the patient and family. The passage is considered a win by senior organizations and advocates. But these same advocates say there’s another huge need for additional funding for Senior Centers and the vital services they provide. Reporter Rebecca Turnbull brings us this story.

The gorgeous 80-year-old Capitol chandelier has been temporarily removed for cleaning, and the dome that housed the crystal fixture is now getting ready for repairs. Videographer Daniel Walker captured the removal and Reporter Liz McCormick takes us there.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uK2EE3oqLMo

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.

The Legislature Today can be seen weeknights on:

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• 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. – The West Virginia Channel

The Legislature Today can also be heard at 6 p.m. weeknights on WVPB’s statewide radio network.
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