The House convened this morning at 11 a.m.
Eight bills were passed. Senate Bill 4 was completed.
Senate Bill 4 removes the ban on constructing nuclear power plants in West Virginia. Bordering states have nuclear power plants. It was stated that West Virginia already has action plans in place in case of an issue from one of the bordering states. Proponents expressed support because it is a carbon-free energy source and will allow for the economic diversity of the state. Opponents were concerned with regulations and the cost of having nuclear power in the state. The chair of the Government Organization pointed out this does not implement anything. It removes a ban, and it will take years before nuclear power would be in the state. He said this allows for the conversation to happen. In the conversation, cost, regulations, and details can be sorted. The bill completed the legislative action and will be sent to the Governor.
House Bill 4263 prohibits the practice of white bagging, which is when health insurance providers do not allow physicians to prescribe and administer a specialty drug. It requires a third-party pharmacy to be involved in providing the medication to the physician then it can be administered to the patient. This will eliminate the supply chain problems with pharmaceuticals and the chain of custody. It will improve efficiency and allow hospitals to do their job.
Six bills were read for the second time today.
House Bill 4286 exempts attorneys from the civil service system. An amendment was offered and rejected.
House Bill 4312 allows first responders to vote by electronic absentee ballot in certain emergency circumstances. An amendment was offered and rejected.
The House is adjourned until 11 a.m. on tomorrow, February 1, 2022.
Committees – Today
The Committee on Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security will meet at 1 p.m. in Room 410.
The Pension and Retirement Committee will meet at 1 p.m. in Room 460.
The Sub-Committee on House Bill 4001 will meet at 1 p.m. in 215E.
The Committee on Technology and Infrastructure will meet at 1:45 p.m. in 215E.
The Education Committee will meet at 3 p.m. in Room 434.
The Judiciary Committee will meet at 3 p.m. in Room 410.
Committees – Tomorrow, February 1, 2022
The Judiciary Committee will meet at 9 a.m. in Room 410.
The Committee on Energy and Manufacturing will meet at 2 p.m. in Room 410.
Dr. Patch Adams spoke with the committee stating that the certificate of need is more of a business document. He stated that health care shouldn’t be focused on money and business; its focus should be on care and giving people the best care possible. He said as a doctor “to care for another human being is to be rich, in the true sense of the word.”
