The West Virginia Senate convened the First Regular Session of the 82nd Legislature today at Noon.
Senator Donna Boley (R-Pleasants) presided over the beginning of the organizational session as the Senate’s longest-serving member. In doing so, she became the first woman in history to preside over the Senate.
Following the presentation of election results by the Secretary of State and the swearing in of newly elected members, the Senate elected Bill Cole (R-Mercer) Senate President.
Former Senator Clark Barnes was elected Senate Clerk and immediately resigned his Senate seat after votes were tallied. Howard Wellman and Tony Gallo were re-elected to their respective positions as Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper.
The Senate also adopted several resolutions relating to the Senate Rules and other organizational matters. The afternoon floor session concluded with the introduction of 232 bills that were then referred to various committees.
The Senate is adjourned until 11:00 a.m. tomorrow.
