West Virginia Legislature Convenes Special Session to Address Critical State Issues – May 2024

Gov. Jim Justice Calls for Special Legislative Session to Address Critical Issues

In a proactive move to address pressing issues affecting the state of West Virginia, Governor Jim Justice has called for a special legislative session to convene on Sunday, May 19, 2024. Just one day into the session, legislators have already begun discussing important matters such as memorializing the life of former lawmaker Bob Ashley and addressing the errors in the rollout of the new FAFSA program.

One of the key priorities of the special session is to restore budgets for the Departments of Health and Human Services, which Governor Justice emphasized as crucial for the well-being of vulnerable populations in the state. Additionally, the session will focus on allocating funds for highway maintenance, improving access to education through the Hope Scholarship program, and establishing a new state-of-the-art agricultural laboratory at West Virginia State University.

Governor Justice highlighted the importance of utilizing the state’s surpluses to address these critical issues and attract more residents and businesses to West Virginia. The session will also address supplemental appropriations, including providing over $80 million to colleges and universities to support students affected by the FAFSA crisis.

Overall, the special session aims to address a range of issues that are vital to the state’s growth and prosperity. Governor Justice expressed his commitment to providing stability and support to students, faculty, and communities in West Virginia, ensuring that the state continues on a path of progress and success.