By Vivian Parsons, Executive Director

Only 2 more days to go in the regular session (the governor has extended the session by 3 days to work on the state budget bill).  All bills still in committee at this time have little chance for survival, as bills are to be read on the floor 3 separate days.  Rules can, however, be suspended by the body if the votes are there, but we haven't seen much of that this session.   As always, call me if you have questions, 304-415-1608.

First a quick update on some bills of special importance we've been following:

HJR 113 - "County Option Homestead Exemption Bill" - Likely dead, has a double reference in Senate and has not moved.

SB 487 - expanding definitions of county economic development authority so counties can receive the monies in the Coalbed Methane Gas Distribution Fund   - This bill has passed out of House Finance and is on 1st reading today!

SB 526 - permissive authority for county commission to impose additional transfer tax for dedication to regional jails and drug treatment. - This bill is most likely dead, still sitting in House Finance.

SB 167 - allowing county to accept credit card payments.  - This bill is likely dead, still sitting in House Judiciary.

SB 437 - Governor's Substance Abuse bill  - This bill is on 1st reading on the House Floor.

SB 468 - Allowing Courthouse Facilities Improvement Authority to issue bonds - This bill is likely dead, still sitting in House Finance.

HB 4547 - Creating the West Virginia Innovation Free-Trade Business Technology Property Valuation Act and the West Virginia Innovation Free-Trade Tax Credit Act - Allows for the use of (5% ) salvage value tax credits  - Likely Dead, still in Senate Economic Development.

HB 4030 prioritizes payments of fees from court costs which could cost counties revenues   - The Senate Judiciary Committee has passed this bill, but it has a 2nd reference to Senate Finance, which makes passage less likely.

Here are all the bills of county interest we've been following since cross-over day...(remember you can click on the bill number and go to the text of the bill and bill history)