(A News and Sentinel Op-Ed - Photo Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

This week marked another busy week of action under the dome. We are quickly approaching the final weeks of the 2026 Legislative Session as crossover day was Wednesday.

The Senate passed SB 59, relating to voter eligibility and residency requirements. The bill tightens up residency requirements and states that a person loses residency when they vote in another state, precinct or county from which they reside. The bill passed 33-0 and advanced to the House for further consideration.

The Senate passed SB 141, relating to Natural Resources Police Officers. The bill would increase the accrued benefit for DNR Police Officers, increasing their retirement benefits. I was honored to be a sponsor of this legislation, supporting our law enforcement officers. The bill passed 33-0 and advanced to the House for further action.

The Senate passed SB 402, relating to the Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act. This bill would create the West Virginia Micro-Credentialing program under the Higher Education Policy Commission. The goal with this bill is to promote workforce readiness and preparedness. The bill passed 34-0 and advanced to the House for further discussion.

The Senate passed SB 669, relating to the Public Service Commission. This bill would clarify the circumstances when the PSC could approve a rate increase. Under this legislation, the PSC must publish written justification when they implement a utility rate increase. The bill passed 34-0 and advances to the House for further consideration.

The Senate passed SB 745, relating to school nutrition. The bill seeks to address the additives in school lunches and to try and protect children from certain food chemicals. The bill passed 28-5 and advances to the House for further action.

The Senate passed SB 1020, relating to student absence policy. The bill would allow for students to receive up to 5 excused absences for educational leave purposes. The bill passed unanimously and advances to the House for further discussion.

As we enter the final weeks of this year’s session, I welcome your input on the issues of the day. Every day is an opportunity to chart the course for the future of our state, and I welcome your perspective on these issues. It’s an honor to serve the Third Senatorial District and I’m always available to serve your needs. Have a great week!

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Sen. Trenton C. Barnhart

3rd District

304.357.7905

trenton.barnhart@wvsenate.gov