Senators Discuss Opioid Treatment Program Legislation

On this episode of The Legislature Today, legislation to outlaw opioid treatment programs that distribute methadone without offering integrated care in West Virginia, Senate Bill 204, is making its way through the West Virginia Legislature. Emily Rice brings us this story. Also, Assistant News Director Maria Young talks with Sens. Eric Tarr, R-Putnam, and Mike Woelfel, D-Cabell, about the bill.

In the Senate, the Government Organization Committee debated Senate Bill 20, which would require funding for increased costs to volunteer fire departments and EMS units.

On the floor of the House of Delegates, lawmakers voted to pass a spate of bills. Among them was House Bill 2117, which would require mail-in ballots to be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day.

And compared to previous years, this year’s legislative session is off to a relatively slow start. However, bills relating to LGBTQ rights and issues have been an exception. Chris Schulz has more on the latest bills to move in both chambers.

Having trouble viewing the video below? Click here to watch it on YouTube.

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.