This week, before emancipation, Appalachia provided pathways to freedom for enslaved people trying to escape bondage. A new project identifies more than two dozen previously unknown underground railroad sites. Also, the Fly Around Music & Arts Festival in North Carolina was inspired by the hard work that followed Hurricane Helene. And, a ballad about floods recorded a generation ago still provides solace for people today.
On this episode of The Legislature Today, reporter Chris Schulz talks with Del. David Kelly, R-Tyler, and Sen. Mike Caputo, D-Marion, to get their take on the state’s jail challenges and how the West Virginia Legislature could help.
Also, it was a busy day for the West Virginia Senate as they passed a dozen bills, ranging from issues about schools to health care and substance use.
Two more bills have passed through the legislative process and are now on their way to Gov. Jim Justice for his signature. Senate Bill 143 is titled Relating to Adopt-A-Stream Program, and Senate Bill 231 transfers administration of West Virginia Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Matching Funds Program to the West Virginia Department of Economic Development.
Finally, West Virginia’s farms and forests were on display at the Capitol Monday. Randy Yohe discovered a new take on dairy farming and the possibility of expanding the state’s fledgling furniture manufacturing industry.
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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.
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On this West Virginia Week, the state is under a flood watch through Sunday, the fire in Parkersburg is under investigation and a class action against the state’s foster care system will move forward.
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On this West Virginia Morning, not much has been known about Appalachia’s contributions to the Underground Railroad, but a Marshall University historian is documenting that history.
On this West Virginia Morning, affordable dental care is a little-talked-about challenge low-income families face in this state, but there is an effort underway to change that.
On this West Virginia Morning, many people are looking towards the country's future after the nation's 250th anniversary. A group in West Virginia is talking to the region’s youth to capture their voices and perspectives about what comes next.
