The Senate met at 11:00 a.m. on Friday and passed 15 bills, 3 of which originated in the House.
SB 253 provides for the fair pay and employment of disabled persons, creates a state “Employment First” policy to encourage agencies to employ disabled persons, and establishes a task force to initiate these policies. The bill provides for the DHHR Bureau of Behavioral Health, Bureau of Medical Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services and Workforce WV to put the policy into practice.
SB 130 revises procedures for suspensions of driver’s licenses for driving under the influence. The bill provides that those who have had their driver’s licenses revoked upon conviction of this offense are to complete a comprehensive safety and treatment program before the license can be reinstated.
SB 660 regulates electronic bicycles by providing for their exclusion from registration, title, insurance and driver’s license requirements. The bill prohibits the influence of alcohol and drugs on these bicycles and requires the wearing of a helmet.
House bill 4515 was also passed, completing legislation for the bill. This bill deals with wildlife resources and eligibility for license or permit application, requiring an eligibility statement for permit applications. The bill also clarifies false statements on permit applications as unlawful.
HB 4359 creates a uniform definition of “filing” and sets a flat filing fee for insurance forms and rules.
HB 4149 adds definitions relating to insurance.
The Senate suspended constitutional rules and passed 9 bills on second reading.
SB 484 requires that free feminine hygiene products be given to female prisoners, as well as female juveniles in juvenile detention centers.
SB 649 permits the director of a county or municipality emergency phone system to create contracts for emergency mobile phones if landlines are unavailable.
Senate bills 491, 672, 722, 728, 781, 789, 804 and 806 were also passed after the suspension of constitutional rules.
Senate Resolution 48 was adopted, celebrating the 12th anniversary of Bluefield College. Resolution 49 was also adopted, designating February 21st as State University Day. Two brief recesses were held for the presentation of these resolutions.
The Senate is adjourned until 11:00 a.m. Monday morning.
The Education Committee met at 1:30 p.m. in room 451M.
Following the Education Committee meeting, the Senate Judiciary Committee will meet in room 208W.
Following the Judiciary Committee meeting, The Finance Committee will meet in room 451M.
Following the Finance Committee meeting, the Committee on Government Organization will meet in room 208W.
