The Senate met on Tuesday morning, introducing bills 600-634 and adopting Senate Resolutions 16,17, and 18.
Senate Resolution 18 designates January 27, 2026, as Sexual Violence Awareness Day at the West Virginia State Legislature.
Senator Woelfel (D-Cabell, 05) stated that in 2015, West Virginia was among the worst states in the nation in its treatment of sexual assault victims, with rape kits left untested for years in police stations and courthouses. He noted that since then, the Senate has passed roughly a dozen bills that have led to all backlog kits being tested. He thanked current and former Senators for their efforts that have led to productive reforms of the system.
Following, Senator Jay Taylor (R – Taylor, 14) gave remarks concerning an 11-year-old girl from his county named Miana Moran, who was discovered deceased in her home after several visits from Child Protective Services days prior.
Sen. Taylor stated that legislation is being drafted to bring meaningful reform to Child Protective Services.
“We have failed in our responsibility to our children,” he stated.
The body joined in a moment of silence in honor of Maria Moran.
The Senate is adjourned until tomorrow, Jan. 28, at 11 a.m.
Afternoon Meetings:
Transportation and Infrastructure at 12:30 p.m. in Room 451M
Workforce at 12:30 p.m. in Room 208W
Health and Human Resources at 1:30 p.m. in Room 451M
Finance at 3 p.m. in Room 451M
Judiciary at 3 p.m. in Room 208W
