Physician And Lawmaker Talks State Health Issues

On this episode of The Legislature Today, West Virginia often gets poor grades for the health of its citizens. Recently, the American Lung Association rated the state as failing when it comes to several categories relating to smoking cessation. WVPB’s Appalachia Health News Reporter Emily Rice sat down with Del. Matthew Rohrbach, R-Cabell, who is a practicing physician.

Also, after hearing stories in the House of Delegates about health care provider misconduct and foster families not receiving their proper funds, a proposal to split the state Department of Health and Human Resources into three cabinet positions was up for a final vote Tuesday. Randy Yohe has the story and outcome.

A bill allowing the Foster Care Ombudsman more authority to protect children in state care passed the Senate unanimously. As Emily Rice explains, the bill has been through many amendments before Tuesday’s vote.

Finally, the American Heart Association was in the rotunda this Valentine’s Day promoting heart health. Chris Schulz has the story.

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The Legislature Today is West Virginia’s only television/radio simulcast devoted to covering the state’s 60-day regular legislative session.

Watch or listen to new episodes Monday through Friday at 6 p.m. on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.