CHARLESTON, WV – West Virginia lawmakers returned to the state capitol over the weekend for the first time this legislative session, using Saturday’s session to push forward a range of bills addressing substance abuse, education, and infrastructure.
Addressing Substance Abuse with the Joel Archer Act
With West Virginia continuing to battle one of the highest drug overdose rates in the country, senators unanimously approved the Joel Archer Substance Abuse Intervention Act. Named after a young man who died from an overdose, the bill introduces involuntary treatment options for individuals suffering from substance use disorders.
Republican Sen. Mike Stuart (Kanawha County) described the bill as a lifeline for families struggling to help loved ones.
“This is about giving people another chance,” Stuart said. “Every parent just wants one more opportunity to save their child.”
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Troops to Teachers Program Moves Forward
The Senate also passed the Troops to Teachers Program, a bill designed to help veterans transition into teaching careers. The initiative streamlines the process for military personnel to become educators, helping to fill teacher shortages across the state.
Republican Sen. Tom Willis (Berkeley County) emphasized the valuable leadership and skills veterans bring to classrooms.
“This bill taps into a talent pool of disciplined, skilled individuals who can serve as role models for our students,” Willis said.
Investment in Rail Infrastructure Gains Support
Senators also advanced legislation aimed at improving West Virginia’s short-line railroads, a crucial component of the state’s mining, manufacturing, and tourism industries.
Republican Sen. Robbie Morris (Randolph County) stressed the economic benefits of investing in rail infrastructure.
“Short-line railroads play a major role in moving goods across our state,” Morris said. “This investment will also benefit tourist railroads, which attract visitors and boost local economies.”
Final Stretch of the Legislative Session
With only two weeks remaining before the April 12 deadline, lawmakers are working to finalize key proposals. This weekend’s session highlighted bipartisan cooperation in tackling some of the state’s most pressing challenges .