The importance of the coal mining industry in West Virginia was recognized today in the Senate with the adoption of Senate Resolution 50. Members of the West Virginia Coal Association (pictured) were on hand to be presented with the resolution expressing the importance of the industry by stating that coal mining has been, and continues to be, one of the primary industries responsible for the economic success of West Virginia and its citizens, and requests the support of West Virginia’s congressional delegation for the coal industry.
Three bills were read on first reading today in the Senate. Of those on first reading, House Bill 2335 would require West Virginia public colleges and universities to participate in the federal Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program established under the new G.I Bill. The program would provide eligible veterans additional funding toward the cost of college tuition and fees. Educational benefits to certain veterans would equal the cost of in-state tuition at the most expensive public university or college in the state. The federal Secretary of Veterans Affairs would cover fifty percent of any additional costs over and above in-state tuition costs in exchange for a matching contribution from the college or university the veteran would attend.
Kindergarden students from the St. Agnes School welcomed the Senate into session today with the sounds of the John Denver classic, “Take Me Home, Country Roads.”
The following committees will meet today:
Health and Human Resources – 1:00 p.m. – 451M
Education – 2:00 p.m. – 451M
Finance – 3:00 p.m. – 451M
Judiciary – 3:00 p.m. – 208W
Education (LOCEA) – 5:00 p.m. – 451M
The following committees will meet tomorrow:
Economic Development – 9:00 a.m. – 451M
Military – 9:30 a.m. – 208W
Transportation – 10:00 a.m. – 451M
Rules – 10:45 a.m. – President’s Conference Room
The Senate will reconvene tomorrow at 11:00 a.m.
