Gov. Jim Justice to Decide on Special Legislative Session Next Week

Gov. Jim Justice is gearing up to call a special legislative session in response to Medicaid cuts made in a last-minute budget decision. In a media briefing on Wednesday, Justice expressed his hope that the session would take place in May.

The Medicaid cuts were a result of a scaled-down budget passed on the final day of the regular legislative session. Justice criticized the decision, stating that the funds were essential to help those in need in the state. He has committed to reversing the cuts and restoring the necessary funding.

The budget cuts were made due to concerns over a potential federal “clawback” of $465 million in education funding spent during the pandemic. However, the U.S. Department of Education ultimately granted a waiver, alleviating the fears of the clawback. Justice emphasized that he had been confident all along that the waiver would be granted.

The special session will address a range of issues, including childcare, support for seniors, veterans, and education. The last special session in August 2023 focused on a Department of Corrections staffing crisis and first responder funding, with 44 proposed bills included in the call.

A finalized state budget for fiscal year 2025 must be completed by June 30, adding urgency to the need for a special legislative session. Stay tuned for updates on when the session will be called and what specific issues will be addressed.