October 9th, 2025 by WCBC Radio
The West Virginia Legislature wrapped up its October Interim meetings this week, taking up issues that ranged from economic development and state finances to the future of energy in the Mountain State.
Sessions opened for many Sunday with a training on economic outreach. Delegates focused on how to present West Virginia as a destination for business investment. Financial stability remains one of the strongest selling points. With a healthy Rainy Day Fund, well funded pension plans, and no major tax increase since the 1990s, the state offers a steady tax environment that companies value. Lawmakers also noted the largest tax cut in state history passed in 2023. Training is being offered to members of the House of Delegates to better equip them for conversations with industry leaders.
The Joint Committee on Finance met twice. Revenues for the month ran 43 million dollars above estimates, supported by stronger personal income tax and sales tax collections. Severance tax receipts, historically the most volatile revenue source, are rebounding. Presentations from Cynthia Beane of the Bureau for Medical Services, Jeremy C. Wolfe of the Board of Risk and Insurance Management, and Jeffrey Fleck of the Consolidated Public Retirement Board highlighted both challenges and strengths. BRIM is rebuilding reserves following a large payout in a civil case involving a non state entity that was insured through the program, prompting discussion about why previous legislatures allowed non state entities to be covered and thereby exposed state taxpayers to risk. CPRB reported that West Virginia’s pension plans are among the strongest in the nation, with several already fully funded and all projected to be fully funded around 2032, which would allow dollars to be redirected to other state services.
Economic development also received extended attention. The Joint Committee on Economic Development heard from leaders representing Hardy County, Mineral County, Region 7, Region 9, and Putnam County. They outlined what is working well at the local level, where state programs fall short, and how better coordination could help attract employers. Their message was consistent. Targeted improvements can bring more jobs and stronger communities.
Energy production anchored another day of meetings. Charlie Burd, president of the Gas and Oil Association of West Virginia, reported that the state is now the fifth largest natural gas producer in the United States, with production in 53 of 55 counties. Natural gas revenue has surpassed coal in state tax contributions. On coal, Chris Hamilton of the West Virginia Coal Association noted that the state ranks second in thermal coal and leads the nation in metallurgical coal, which is essential for steelmaking. Coal from West Virginia continues to fuel power plants nationwide, producing 84,327 megawatts of baseload electricity at 36 facilities.
Other interim meetings focused on making West Virginia more competitive by streamlining permitting, responding to industry needs, and adapting to new technologies. Lawmakers emphasized staying responsive to business and industry so the state can continue to grow.
Residents who need assistance with a state agency, have an idea for future legislation, or want to share thoughts on how to make West Virginia an even better place to live, work, and raise a family can contact Delegate Gary Howell at (304) 340-3191 or Gary.Howell@WVHouse.gov
