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Last week was crossover week at the Legislature and it was a very intriguing week of action under the dome! As I write this column, the budget has been passed, and it awaits Governor Morrisey’s action. In addition to the budget debate, several more key bills have passed the Senate.

The Senate passed SB 29, relating to the Judiciary. This bill provided pay increases to members of the Judiciary, including magistrates, circuit court judges, family court judges, judges of the Intermediate Court of Appeals, and justices of the Supreme Court of Appeals. The bill passed 33-0 and advanced to the House for further discussion.

The Senate passed SB 67, relating to public charter schools. This measure would create a right of first refusal for public charter schools to use or obtain unused public school buildings. The bill passed 32-1 and advances to the House for further action.

The Senate passed SB 144, relating to the homestead exemption. This bill would allow for periodic increases to the homestead exemption, up to $40,000. However, the provisions of this bill would only be enacted with the subsequent passage of SJR 11, which is a constitutional amendment to increase the homestead exemption. The constitutional amendment must be approved by both houses of the Legislature and then by a general election vote of the people. Both the bill and the constitutional amendment passed the Senate unanimously and advance to the House for further consideration.

The Senate passed SB 587, relating to compensation for county officials. The bill would provide up to a 5% pay increase for county officials. The bill passed 33-0 and advances to the House for further discussion.

The Senate passed SB 723, relating to law enforcement mutual aid. This bill clarifies law enforcement cooperation procedures with bordering states. As a Senator whose district has several border counties, I was pleased to sponsor this bill to provide clarity for these procedures. The bill passed 33-0 and advances to the House for further action.

As we enter the final days of the 2026 Legislative Session, I can’t help but reflect on the work we have done and the work that’s left to be accomplished. It’s my honor to represent you in Charleston and I look forward to a productive final week of session. Have a great week!

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Sen. Trenton C. Barnhart

trenton.barnhart@wvsenate.gov