Morrisey Speaks On Energy Business, Plans To ‘Accelerate’ Permits

In a Thursday press conference, Gov. Patrick Morrisey reiterated his commitment to “backyard brawls,” competitions with neighboring states on lowering state personal income tax and broad deregulation – goals he says will increase economic growth.

Todd Johnston, whom Morrisey appointed deputy chief of staff and chair of the newly-created Energy, Infrastructure, and Competitiveness Council at the beginning of the month, joined Morrisey at the press conference.

“We can make some real efficiency improvements and coordinate our efforts with the federal government, and get West Virginia up and running, ready for business,” Johnston said.

Johnston most recently worked as vice president of policy at ConservAmerica, a conservative environmental advocacy group that centers on business interests.

Morrisey also said he would host a conference in March with “a lot of senior CEOs and leaders in the business community” to “better identify some of the things that West Virginia needs to do to advance economically.”

Ahead of the legislative session, beginning Feb. 12, Morrisey said his administration would prioritize “accelerating” the state’s permitting process. He pointed to Pennsylvania’s “one-stop shopping” permit process as a model.

“I think regulated business cares a lot about having streamlined applications and how long it takes to get permits approved,” Morrisey said. “I think everyone can agree on that, so we’ve been in the process right now reviewing that within the different departments.”

Morrisey also said he had discussions with federal officials at the presidential inauguration this week — and plans to further talk with surrounding states’ governors on potential collaborations.