The Senate met Friday morning, passing four bills, introducing bills 585-599, and adopting three resolutions.
Senate Bill 15 amends permit rules for carbon capture projects, requiring plans to isolate valuable minerals and notification of affected mineral owners.
This bill requires applicants to notify affected mineral owners and address any objections before the permit process may continue.
Senate Bill 66 changes classes of preparedness declared by the Governor.
Senate Bill 137 would modify parole eligibility for individuals convicted of second-degree murder by increasing the minimum time served before becoming eligible for parole from 10 years to 15.
Senator Joey Gracia (D – Marion, 13) raised concerns about increasing penalties when crime rates have not risen, noting that the additional $125 million in spending could instead be directed toward a 5 percent tax cut, education funding, and childcare.
Supporters of the bill argued it would strengthen accountability and public safety.
Senator Tom Willis (R – Berkeley, 15), Chair of the Judiciary Committee and the lead sponsor of the bill, states that he supports the bill because it raises parole eligibility for second-degree murder from 10 years to 15 years. He noted that this legislation will shape the incentives for behavior and public safety.
Senate Bill 207 clarifies sheriff compensation for tax collection by allowing a $15,000 annual commission after 85 percent of assessed property taxes are collected, with the county determining eligibility and the commission included in the sheriff’s budget compensation.
These bills now head to the House of Delegates for consideration.
The body also adopted three resolutions
State Resolution 12 recognizes January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month.
State Resolution 13 Designates January 13, 2026, as Dental Hygienist Day at the West Virginia State Capitol.
State Resolution 14 recognizes Lucille and James Pennington for receiving the 2025 West Virginia Logger of the Year award.
The Senate is adjourned until Monday. Jan. 26, at 2:00 p.m.
