This week, a new report finds the number of black lung cases is at its highest since the 1970s. The human cost is high. Also, the author of a new book says reintroducing nearly extinct animals back into the wild can boost damaged ecosystems, but they can't repair them. And, roadside attractions pay tribute to our enduring fascination with weird.
On this episode of The Legislature Today, Assistant News Director Maria Young turned to the issue of legislation related to foster care and adoption as multiple bills wind their way through the two chambers. She spoke with Jaycie Bias, executive director with the West Virginia Foster, Adoptive & Kinship Parents Network, and Rachel Kinder with Mission West Virginia, a non-profit that advocates and focuses on those same areas.
In the House, delegates passed several bills, many of which, like the state wide camping ban, garnered debate.
It was a somber day in the Senate as lawmakers passed a bill that would increase penalties for drug-related offenses. The bill is named in honor of a 26-year-old Morgantown native and West Virginia University (WVU) graduate who died after ingesting drugs laced with fentanyl. The bill passed with her parents present in the gallery. Emily Rice brings us that story.
And student conduct and discipline has been a focus of legislative activity for the past several years. As Chris Schulz reports, one subcommittee is looking at bills to help students focus and behave.
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.
Add WVPB as a preferred source on Google to see more from our team
On this West Virginia Week, plans for a new transmission line may be in trouble, a former state delegate is indicted, and the state has a new secretary of tourism.
This week, a new report finds the number of black lung cases is at its highest since the 1970s. The human cost is high. Also, the author of a new book says reintroducing nearly extinct animals back into the wild can boost damaged ecosystems, but they can't repair them. And, roadside attractions pay tribute to our enduring fascination with weird.
County commissioners from the state's largest counties, by population, are set to meet virtually next week to discuss their unique issues including ballooning per diem jail costs.
Marshall University and WVU will provide grant writing and subject expertise with the goal of leveraging $450 million in federal and private funding for water infrastructure projects.