CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Governor Patrick Morrisey delivered his first State of the State address, outlining an ambitious vision to boost West Virginia’s economy, reform government spending, and solidify the state’s role as a leader in energy production.
Economic Growth and Energy Leadership
Morrisey emphasized West Virginia’s potential as an energy powerhouse, particularly in coal, natural gas, and water resources.
He announced the creation of the West Virginia Power Tech Center, a collaborative initiative with state universities and technical schools to develop workforce training in energy and technology sectors.
He pledged to slash red tape and implement tax and regulatory policies that would attract industries such as data centers, artificial intelligence, and cryptocurrency facilities.
“With President Donald J. Trump back in the White House, we are entering a golden era unlike anything we’ve seen before,” Morrisey said, emphasizing the state’s role in America’s competition with China for energy dominance.
Budget and Fiscal Responsibility
Morrisey highlighted a structural deficit in the state budget, stating that without action, West Virginia could face a $600 million shortfall in the coming years.
He introduced the Mountain State Comeback Budget, a plan focused on cutting government spending rather than raising taxes.
His administration has already proposed consolidating state departments, eliminating redundant boards and commissions, and hiring a chief financial officer to oversee audits and spending reviews.
Education and Workforce Development
West Virginia ranks near the bottom in educational attainment and workforce participation, and Morrisey stressed the need for reforms. He called for:
- A ban on cell phones in classrooms to improve learning outcomes.
- Expanding vocational and technical education to provide more career pathways for students.
- More competitive teacher salaries, with a push to modernize the school funding formula.
- Broadband expansion, which he described as critical to economic growth.
Healthcare and Deregulation
Morrisey proposed eliminating Certificate of Need (CON) laws, which he described as government overreach restricting new healthcare facilities. He argued that removing CON mandates would increase healthcare access, particularly in rural areas.
He also acknowledged the challenges facing the Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) and called for legislative solutions to prevent increased costs for retirees.
Public Safety and Drug Crisis Response
Morrisey vowed to continue cracking down on illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking, which he linked to West Virginia’s ongoing drug crisis.
He highlighted the work of recovery specialists like Jennifer Crane, a former addict turned advocate, as an example of the fight against substance abuse.
Conservative Policy Initiatives
The governor reiterated his commitment to conservative values, including:
- Banning transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports, with support for the “Riley Gaines Act.”
- Eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in state-funded institutions.
- Strengthening Second Amendment rights and religious liberties.
Vision for the Future
Closing on a hopeful note, Morrisey referenced the Super Bowl commercial featuring John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” saying he envisions a future where West Virginia’s young people can build their lives and careers in the state.
“The Mountain State comeback is here, and it starts right now,” he declared.
