Published February 11, 2021 at 9:56 AM EST Listen • 14:01
On this
West Virginia Morning, we hear a story about grandfamilies during the coronavirus pandemic. Also, the 2021 West Virginia Legislative session has begun. We hear from Gov. Jim Justice on his legislative priorities, and we hear an update to a lawsuit filed against Union Carbide.
During the first State of the State address of his second term, Gov. Justice spoke of West Virginia’s image nationally. He mentioned the state’s accomplishments, despite a harrowing year impacted by COVID-19. He shared goals that he said will continue to push West Virginia to the top. Emily Allen reports.
On this West Virginia Morning, we hear more on the COVID-19 vaccine in Kanawha County and English language learners in Kentucky. Later in the show, friends and family of Russell Yann, who owned Yann's Hotdogs in Fairmont and died last month, remember the Marion County legend.
Listen • 15:46
On this
West Virginia Morning, republican state leadership say a Fairness Act could be a “turning point” for gay and trans rights in West Virginia. But the state has yet to push one through the legislative process. Also, we learn about an online storybook that highlights Medicaid success stories.
The state agency responsible for overseeing the oil and gas industry had budget shortfalls last year and had to cut staff. A group of lawmakers, environmental advocates, and representatives of private property owners are calling for the state legislature to fully-fund the agency. Duncan Slade has more.
Almost a third of West Virginians rely on Medicaid for their health coverage. That includes single moms, caretakers, students and every kind of West Virginian under the sun. A collective of healthcare advocacy groups want to highlight these folks. Their stories include accessing essential health services like delivering a baby or seeing a therapist
Listen • 14:30
On this
West Virginia Morning, we explore potential sweeping changes to the Affordable Care Act and how those changes might affect West Virginians. Also, we have a report on a proposal to create a civilian police review board in Morgantown, and we have a conversation with the head of HD Media, which filed a lawsuit against Google and Facebook.
The Morgantown City Council last week met to hear a proposal that would create a civilian police review board. Nearly all the Morgantown police officers who would be affected by the review board are members of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #87. An attorney for the lodge sent the city council a letter this week opposing the proposed board. Duncan Slade has more.
Listen • 15:11
On this
West Virginia Morning, the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in more homeless West Virginians. But just how many? We explore this question. Also, we have the latest news on the coronavirus pandemic in West Virginia, and we hear how the pandemic has affected the life and work of
Us & Them host Trey Kay.
In West Virginia, state health officials are reporting lower daily infection rates, fewer hospitalizations and less deaths from COVID-19. As June Leffler reports, this improved outlook comes with new vaccine clinic locations later this week.
Even as vaccines are distributed, West Virginia is still digging out of the recession caused by the coronavirus pandemic. It has been felt by many. But just how many West Virginians have experienced homelessness for the first time because of the pandemic? Duncan Slade tried to find the answer.