The Senate convened today at 11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
There were 18 bills read on third reading today. One of those bills was the Budget Bill. Senate Bill 269 addresses the budgetary issues in West Virginia. The bill, which is by request from the executive, would appropriate money necessary for the economical and efficient discharge of the duties and responsibilities of the state and its agencies during the fiscal year of 2017.
The remaining bills on third reading were: House Bill 2494, 2826, 4014, 4080, 4265, 4334, 4351, 4360, 4365, 4411, 4487, 4502, 4507, 4517, 4519, 4636 and 4734. House Bill 4014 would prevent the State Board of Education from implementing common core academic standards and assessments. House Bill 4360 would increase the criminal penalty for the unlawful practice of law. All of the bills on third reading were passed and communicated to the House for consideration.
The Senate had 31 bills on second reading today. House Bill 2205 would create the crime of prohibited sexual contact by a psychotherapist. House Bill 4307 would clarify that a firearm may be carried for self-defense in state parks, state forests and state recreational areas. House Bill 4575 would create criminal offenses relating to money laundering.
Governor Tomblin vetoed Senate Bill 10 on March 9, 2016. Senate Bill 10, the Unborn Child Protection from Dismemberment Abortion Act, would alter the procedure protocols for a type of medical procedure commonly used during second trimester pregnancies. The Senate reviewed the veto today and voted to override the decision. The bill was sent to the House for consideration.
There were a number of bills that completed legislation in the Senate today. Those bills include: Senate Bill 6, 43, 47, 195, 330, 338, 416, 494, 520, 573 and 627.
The following committees will meet tomorrow morning before session:
The Committee on Finance: 9 a.m. in 451M
The Senate will reconvene tomorrow morning at 10 a.m.
