url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-votes-to-move-forward-to-override-president-trumps-veto-of-defense-bill,Manchin Votes To Move Forward To Override President Trump's Veto Of Defense Bill,2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 30, 2020 Manchin Votes To Move Forward To Override President Trump's Veto Of Defense Bill Washington, DC U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) voted to move forward in the process to override President Trump's veto of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Senate voted 80-12 in favor of moving forward in the process to override President Trump's veto. Senator Manchin condemned President Trump's reckless decision to veto the vital legislation last week. This evening, the Senate overwhelmingly voted to move forward in the process to override President Trump's reckless and selfish veto of the FY21 NDAA. This is the first step in ensuring our servicemembers receive the support they need to protect America from threats at home and abroad. The NDAA has passed with overwhelming bipartisan support for six decades and while the override is not final yet, I am relieved the Senate can come together to support our servicemembers and their families and ensure America and our allies are secure and protected. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/bipartisan-bicameral-group-908-coalition-to-president-trump-sign-relief-package-or-veto-immediately,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Group ""908 Coalition"" To President Trump: Sign Relief Package Or Veto Immediately",2020-12-27,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 27, 2020 Bipartisan, Bicameral Group ""908 Coalition"" To President Trump: Sign Relief Package Or Veto Immediately Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Susan Collins (R-ME), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Angus King (I-ME), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) and Tom Reed (R-NY-23) again urged President Trump to sign the COVID-19 emergency relief package. Mr. President, we are asking you to please sign the emergency relief bill. This act will show your support for the American people who are in need of emergency lifelines like food, shelter, unemployment benefits and small business relief during these challenging times. However, if your objection to the COVID-19 relief bill will prevent you from signing, please veto it immediately. You've made your position clear and rejecting it quickly will allow those in favor to act before it is too late. Never before in your personal, professional, or political life have you been characterized as a man of inaction. Now is not the time to sit idly by - please do the right thing and sign or veto this bill immediately. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-president-trump-signing-covid-19-relief-bill,Manchin Statement On President Trump Signing COVID-19 Relief Bill,2020-12-27,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 27, 2020 Manchin Statement On President Trump Signing COVID-19 Relief Bill Charleston, WV This evening, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement after President Trump signed the COVID-19 emergency relief bill passed by Congress last week. I am relieved the President has signed our bipartisan relief bill. I hope these emergency benefits can be quickly distributed to keep Americans fed, housed and our small businesses operating. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-changes-at-clarksburg-va,Manchin Statement On Changes At Clarksburg VA,2020-12-24,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 24, 2020 Manchin Statement On Changes At Clarksburg VA Charleston, WV U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the announcement regarding changes about the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center (VAMC) in Clarksburg. It was time for a leadership change at the Clarksburg VAMC for the sake of our Veterans' safety and well-being. The recently announced safety stand-down is further evidence that there are serious issues at the Clarksburg VA facility. My main concern continues to be monitoring the quality of care our Veterans receive at our West Virginia VAMCs. I hope this will be a fresh start for our Veterans and their loved ones. My heart goes out to these Veterans and their families who will be impacted in the middle of an already difficult holiday season. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/12/23/2020/manchin-wishes-west-virginians-a-merry-christmas-and-happy-holidays,Manchin Wishes West Virginians A Merry Christmas And Happy Holidays,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 23, 2020 Manchin Wishes West Virginians A Merry Christmas And Happy Holidays Charleston, WV U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement wishing West Virginians a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Gayle and I would like to wish all West Virginians and Americans a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. The COVID-19 pandemic has tested us all this year but it has also shown us once again how resilient West Virginians are when we support one another through difficult times. We hope that next year we'll be celebrating the holidays with our families and loved ones again. During the Christmas season, Gayle and I are reminded of the importance of family - the source of life's greatest joys and deepest bonds. I hope West Virginians create new traditions with their loved ones that keep us all safe and healthy.This holiday season, I encourage everyone to join us in praying for the safety of our fellow West Virginians, front line workers and healthcare professionals.My parents taught me that if you can count your blessings, you can share your blessings. As this year comes to a close, let us all reflect on our blessings and look forward to a healthy, happy, and safe New Year. Senator Manchin's holiday video message can be found here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-president-trumps-self-serving-reckless-decision-to-veto-fy21-ndaa,"Manchin Statement On President Trump's Self-Serving, Reckless Decision To Veto FY21 NDAA",2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 23, 2020 Manchin Statement On President Trump's Self-Serving, Reckless Decision To Veto FY21 NDAA Charleston, WV U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on President Trump's unpatriotic decision to veto the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which was passed by Congress earlier this month. It is a true shame that President Trump decided to veto the NDAA putting our servicemembers and their families at immediate risk and denying them a hard-earned pay raise, jeopardizing an expansion of healthcare benefits for our brave Veterans who have been exposed to toxic chemicals during their selfless service to our nation and hindering our cybersecurity forces as they work to address the recent cyberattacks we've experienced. The NDAA has passed with overwhelming bipartisan support every year for the last six decades providing America and our allies with security and stability. This legislation continually ensures our servicemembers have the equipment and support they need to protect our nation from threats at home and abroad. His selfish decision is recklessly irresponsible plain and simple and I urge my colleagues to join with me to quickly override this veto. What's at stake with President Trump's veto: Providing Support for Military Families and Personnel The FY21 NDAA will strengthen DOD's response to COVID-19 and continues the work of expanding protections for all federal workers. The bill: Includes an across-the-board 3 percent pay raise for all service members, providing an average increase of $860 to $1,500 per year for enlisted troops. Requires the Department of Defense to develop a strategy for pandemic preparedness and review the military health system's response to COVID-19. More than 89,000 Department of Defense employees, including 60,000 servicemembers, have already contracted COVID and a more comprehensive strategy is essential to prevent further spread and preserve readiness. Provides transitional health benefits for National Guard members and their families who support the Federal response to COVID-19. Ensures that Paid Parental Leave provisions from last year's NDAA apply to all Federal government employees and expands anti-discrimination protections for Federal workers. Makes substantive policy improvements to fix the privatized housing crisis for military families and adds over $1.1 billion in additional military construction projects, including multiple child development centers, pier replacements, additional National Guard Readiness Centers, and $25 million for projects to combat the effects of climate change. Protecting Healthcare for Veterans The FY21 NDAA also expands access to healthcare for Veterans and their families. The bill: Adds Parkinsonism, bladder cancer, and hypothyrodism to the list of diseases associated with exposure to Agent Orange, providing access to benefits to an additional 34,000 Veterans. Authorizes additional VA care for newborn children of Veterans. Requires the DOD IG to audit the medical conditions of servicemembers and their families who have lived in unsafe or unhealthy military housing. Advancing National Security Priorities The FY21 NDAA is one of the strongest yet in countering emerging threats and ensuring a robust response to protect American interests. On China, the bill: Counters the threat posed by China to the U.S. and our allies by establishing the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, a new authority for the Department of Defense modeled after the European Deterrence Initiative, and authorizes an additional $150 million in funding. Includes the CHIPS Act, which will support U.S. semiconductor research and manufacturing, and prohibits procurement of covered printed circuit boards (PCBs) from China. Provides Section 333 security assistance authority to help our allies build defenses against Chinese cyberattacks and enhance Air Domain Awareness, as well as providing $2.5 million to Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand for a pilot program to help counter Chinese cyberattacks. Requires the Department of Defense to notify Congress prior to basing a major weapons system or additional permanently assigned forces in a host country with network infrastructure provided by at-risk vendors, including Huawei and ZTE. On other global priorities, the bill: Fully funds the European Deterrence Initiative to strengthen efforts to counter Russian aggression and authorizes $250 million in security assistance to Ukraine. Additionally requires the Secretary of the Treasury to take measures to combat Russian money laundering. Establishes the role of a Senate-confirmed National Cyber Director to coordinate cybersecurity policy and requires DOD to establish a program to train personnel on the threat of foreign malign influence across social media. To view what's at stake with President Trump's veto, please click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-18-million-for-opioid-misuse-treatment-research-in-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce $1.8 Million For Opioid Misuse Treatment, Research In West Virginia",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 22, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $1.8 Million For Opioid Misuse Treatment, Research In West Virginia Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $1,859,051 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for opioid misuse research and treatment programs across West Virginia. The drug epidemic has ravaged our state, impacting every West Virginian and taking thousands from us too soon, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only made this crisis worse. This funding supports research and programs that help West Virginians with substance use disorder across the state. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee I will continue to fight for funding that helps West Virginia manage the drug epidemic through research and treatment. Together we can manage both crises impacting the Mountain State, said Senator Manchin. The opioid crisis has affected lives and communities across the country, but some statesincluding West Virginiahave been hit harder than others, Senator Capito said. Unfortunately, the current pandemic has brought new challenges for those in recovery and living with addiction, resulting in rising overdoses and treatment needs, which makes these funds even more critical. I'm thankful that HHS recognized the need for further support of these programs in West Virginia and look forward to the impact they will make on the lives of our residents. Individual awards listed below: $1,536,547 West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) $222,568 West Virginia University - Drug Abuse and Addiction Research $54,500 United Way of the River Cities $45,436 Morgan County Partnership Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-33-million-for-west-virginia-health-centers,"Manchin, Capito Announce $3.3 Million For West Virginia Health Centers",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 22, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $3.3 Million For West Virginia Health Centers Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $3,383,527 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for health centers across West Virginia. Our front line healthcare workers have worked tirelessly caring for their fellow West Virginians during the COVID-19 pandemic and our health centers play a vital role in providing West Virginians with quality healthcare during this crisis. As we continue to fight this pandemic and more West Virginians receive the vaccine, our health centers will be critical. I am pleased HHS is investing in our health centers and will continue to advocate for funding that supports our essential healthcare providers, Senator Manchin said Health centers play such an important role in providing critical care to people across our state, particularly in the more rural areas of West Virginia. Our dedicated health care workers have been vital in our battle against the coronavirus and will be crucial as we work to bring the COVID-19 vaccine to all corners of our state. I will continue to use my role on the Senate Appropriations Committee to provide these resources to health care providers across West Virginia, said Senator Capito. Individual awards listed below: $1,191,049 Monroe County Health Department $1,166,575 Monongahela Valley Association of Health Centers $1,025,903 Tug River Health Association Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-44-million-for-west-virginia-head-start-programs,"Manchin, Capito Announce $4.4 Million For West Virginia Head Start Programs",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 22, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $4.4 Million For West Virginia Head Start Programs Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $4,473,661 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for Head Start programs across West Virginia. Early education is essential for a bright future and Head Start provides our youngest West Virginians with the skills and education they need to succeed, no matter their background. I'm a longtime supporter of Head Start and know this investment will continue to benefit the programs across our state. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for Head Start funding so they can give our children the chance they deserve, said Senator Manchin Programs like Head Start provide our children with the foundation needed to set them on a trajectory towards success, Senator Capito said. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how resilient our students are, but it has also underscored the need for additional support to schools across our state. I'm proud to support programs like Head Start that help fortify the education of the next generation of West Virginia leaders. Individual awards listed below: $1,879,793 MountainHeart Community Services $1,352,396 Raleigh County Community Action Association $1,178,972 Eastern Allegheny Council for Human Services Head Start $62,500 West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-miller-ensure-legislation-included-in-year-end-package-to-establish-new-river-gorge-as-park-and-preserve,"Manchin, Capito, Miller Ensure Legislation Included In Year-End Package To Establish New River Gorge As Park And Preserve",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 21, 2020 Manchin, Capito, Miller Ensure Legislation Included In Year-End Package To Establish New River Gorge As Park And Preserve Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), along with Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV-3) today issued the following statements regarding the inclusion of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve Designation Actlegislation that would redesignate the New River Gorge National River as the New River Gorge National Park and Preservein the year-end legislative package. This redesignation will promote the beauty and historical significance of the New River Gorge by making the site just the 63rd National Park and 20th National Preserve in the United States, while ensuring that the longstanding traditions of hunting and fishing are protected for generations to come. Congress is expected to vote on the year-end legislative package soon, which includes this legislation and several other provisions that will benefit West Virginians. The New River Gorge is truly one of West Virginia's most treasured playgrounds and largest tourist attractions because of its whitewater rafting, hunting, fishing, outdoor sports and natural beauty. This designation will increase the international recognition by highlighting West Virginia's world-class beauty and resources. Over the last two years we have met with outdoorsmen, businesses and local leaders and other interested groups to ensure this designation will promote the beauty and rich history of the New River Gorge, while ensuring that the longstanding traditions of hunting and fishing are protected for generations to come,said Senator Manchin. The New River Gorge is such an important part of West Virginia and a real source of pride in our state. I am thrilled legislation redesignating the National River as a National Park and Preserve is included in this legislative package. Redesignation of the National River to a National Park and Preserve will shine a brighter light on West Virginia and all that it has to offer, and provide another catalyst for our tourism industry and local businesses. I'm grateful to all of the West Virginianssportsmen, business owners, and constituentsfor their feedback and involvement during this entire process. Throughout all of these discussions, it has become clear that this redesignation would bring enormous benefits to the region and those who call it home. I look forward to a strong bipartisan vote on this so we can send this to President Trump's desk for his signature,Senator Capito said. I am excited to see our legislation to redesignate the New River Gorge as a National Park and Preserve be voted on, said Congresswoman Miller. The New River Gorge is home to all West Virginia has to offer - our beauty, small businesses, and adventurous tourism opportunities. This legislation will preserve and protect the New River Gorge for generations to come and make our state an even better place to live, work, and raise a family. BACKGROUND: In October 2019, Senators Manchin and Capito introduced the New River Gorge Park and Preserve Designation Act, while Congresswoman Miller introduced the companion bill in the House. The legislation will maintain hunting and fishing within the preserve areaareas where sportsmen currently enjoy hunting and fishing. The legislation also specifically protects hunting, fishing, and trapping on privately owned land and will preserve and help grow the vibrant outdoor recreation industry on the New River. The New River Gorge has a long and rich history, which is also preserved through this legislation. Since originally introducing, the legislation has been adjusted to include several changes that would: Create a 65,165 acre Preserve and a 7,021 acre Park. Open up 368 acres to hunting in Grandview for the first time ever. Keeps open 301 acres of the Lower Gorge following the requests of local hunters. Authorize the National Park System (NPS) to bid on additional land for the Preserve that amounts to 3,711 acres. Authorizes the NPS to acquire up to 100 acres for parking only, which is needed as the area has seen an increase in visitors. For full text of the legislation, click here. To view images of the maps, click here. To view a one-pager on the bill, click here. For more information on the New River Gorge, click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-west-virginia-wins-included-in-year-end-funding-package,Manchin: West Virginia Wins Included In Year-End Funding Package,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 21, 2020 Manchin: West Virginia Wins Included In Year-End Funding Package Final legislation includes Bipartisan COVID-19 emergency relief funding, comprehensive energy package and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve designation Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on the passage of the year-end spending package that includes COVID-19 emergency relief funding, a comprehensive energy package, designation of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and additional West Virginia priorities. Late tonight Congress passed a year-end spending package that contains long overdue COVID-19 emergency relief funding, the first comprehensive national energy package in 13 years, designation of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and additional West Virginia priorities. The bipartisan, bicameral legislation I introduced last week served as the foundation for the final COVID-19 relief bill and while some of our priorities were unfortunately not included in the final package, I am pleased this final bill supports programs that will help our workers, families and small businesses make it through the difficult months ahead, Senator Manchin said. This year-end package also includes the designation of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve which creates a 7,021 acre National Park and 65,165 acre National Preserve in southern West Virginia and an all-of-the-above update to our national energy policy that focuses on innovation, rather than elimination, by providing a down payment on the research, development and demonstration of technologies to ensure that all of our abundant energy sources are used in the cleanest way possible. This legislation includes many great provisions for the Mountain State and I urge President Trump to sign the year-end spending package immediately. Details on the final year-end spending package can be found below: COVID-19 Emergency Relief Package Strong support for small business: The agreement includes over $284 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), including first- and second-round forgivable loans and expanded eligibility for 501(c)(6) nonprofits and local newspapers, TV and radio broadcasters. It also includes: $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions, and $20 billion for targeted EIDL Grants which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street. Enhanced Unemployment Insurance: This agreement averts the sudden expiration of Unemployment Insurance benefits on December 26th and provides an additional $300 per week for Americans out of work through March 14th. Schools: This agreement provides $82 billion for states, K-12 schools, and institutions of higher education. $54.3 billion for public K-12 schools $22.7 billion for institutions of higher education $4 billion for the Governor's Emergency Education Relief Fund Nutritional assistance: The agreement provides $13 billion for nutritional assistance, including a temporary 15% increase in SNAP benefits and additional funding for food banks and senior nutrition programs. Rental assistance: The agreement includes $25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes, and an extension of the eviction moratorium through January 31, 2021. Broadband: The agreement includes $7 billion in funding to close the digital divide, including $65 million to update the national broadband maps. Mental Health and Addiction: The agreement includes $4.25 billion to help those struggling with addiction, including $1.65 billion for Substance Abuse and Treatment Block Grants and $1.65B for Mental Health Services Block Grants The Energy Act of 2020 Notable provisions include: Modernization of the functions and structure of the Department of Energy's program for carbon capture, utilization, and storage, to help make these technologies commercially viable for coal and natural gas generation and industrial facilities. Reauthorization of the Weatherization Assistance Program. West Virginia has received over $30 million since 2010 through this program for weatherization work in over 8,000 West Virginian homes. Codification of a NETL-led program to develop advanced separation technologies for extraction and recovery of rare earth elements from coal byproducts. West Virginia University has been a lead recipient and research partner in this work. A robust effort to rebuild domestic supply chains through a multi-Department emphasis on locating, responsibly producing, increasing the efficient use of, recycling, and developing alternatives for critical minerals. Investment in all types of renewable energy resources including wind, solar, hydropower, marine, and geothermal including a focus on applying geothermal technologies to deeper or more challenging resources such as West Virginia's geologic formations. An expanded focus on energy storage, including technical and planning assistance grants to help smaller utilities and electric cooperatives, like West Virginia's Harrison Rural Electrification Association, deploy energy storage. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve Designation Act This designation will: Create a 65,165 acre National Preserve and a 7,021 acre National Park Open up 368 acres to hunting in Grandview for the first time ever Keep 301 acres of the Lower Gorge open to hunting following the requests of local hunters Authorize the National Park Service to acquire up to 3,711 acres of land for potential addition to theNational Preserve. Authorize the NPS to acquire up to 100 acres near the National Park and Preserve for parking, which is needed to avoid impacts to nearby landowners from increased visitation to the National Park Water Resource Development Act of 2020 Southern WV Economic Development: Senator Manchin secured a provision directing the Army Corps of Engineers, the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), and other relevant federal agencies to work together on a comprehensive report that would help identify the potential for Corps of Engineers Facilities that could be improved for recreation, economic development, and hydropower in the Appalachian region. WV Water Infrastructure: Senator Manchin secured two provisions expanding the project caps for the Central and Southern West Virginia Environmental Restoration programs by $80 million each, keeping these programs viable and able to continue providing clean water and sanitary waste systems to West Virginia communities. Bluestone Dam: Continues support for the Army Corps to expedite the final bolstering of Bluestone Dam. Other West Virginia priorities included: Opioids ($3.95B): Billions in dedicated funding to combat opioids including $1.5 billion for the State Opioid Response Grant program with 15% set aside for the hardest hit states, including WV. Clean Drinking Water ($2.74B): Supports nearly $2.74 billion in appropriations toward water infrastructure, as well as $43 million directed to address PFAS chemicals, which have impacted several cities in WV. Suicide Prevention ($757.6M): Includes Senator Manchin's Crisis Care Improvement & Suicide Prevention Act, which provides an increase of $35 million to the Mental Health Services Block Grant, including a 5% set aside for evidence-based crisis care programs. Youth Homelessness ($303.3M): $106.5 million for McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children & Youth, $116.8 million for the Runaway and Homeless Youth Program at the Administration for Children & Families and $80 million to stop youth homelessness through HUD, as well as language Senator Manchin authored to require schools to provide greater transparency on how funding is spent to assist homeless youth. Appalachian Economic Development ($198.5M): $115 million for AML Economic Development Grants, $50 million for ARC POWER Grants, $33.5 million for EDA's Assistance to Coal Communities. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/final-covid-19-emergency-relief-package-based-on-original-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation,"Final COVID-19 Emergency Relief Package Based On Original Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation",2020-12-20,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 20, 2020 Final COVID-19 Emergency Relief Package Based On Original Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mark Warner (D-VA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Angus King (I-ME), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Rob Portman (R-OH), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) and Tom Reed (R-NY-23) applauded the final COVID-19 emergency relief package. Following months of deadlock in Congress while millions of Americans were at risk of losing their lifelines, we put our heads down and worked around the clock for nearly a month to produce a bipartisan, bicameral bill to address the emergency needs of our country. We are relieved Congress has finally agreed on a COVID-19 emergency relief package. Our consensus bill was the foundation of this final package and we applaud Congressional leadership for finishing what we started. Workers, businesses, and families need help right now and we urge our colleagues to quickly pass this bill and President Trump to immediately sign the legislation to provide Americans with relief. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-announces-west-virginia-veterans-will-receive-first-doses-of-moderna-vaccine,Manchin Announces West Virginia Veterans Will Receive First Doses Of Moderna Vaccine,2020-12-19,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 19, 2020 Manchin Announces West Virginia Veterans Will Receive First Doses Of Moderna Vaccine Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) received notification from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that all four VA Medical Centers (VAMCs) in West Virginia have been selected to receive the initial allocation of the Moderna vaccine. The VA is planning to begin distributing the Moderna vaccine as early as next week. Today I heard directly from Veterans Affairs officials that VA facilities in West Virginia will be receiving the initial allocation of the of the Moderna vaccine as early as next week. I'm pleased the Department of Veterans Affairs has acted quickly after my inquiry last week to remedy the situation. West Virginia Veterans have made tremendous sacrifices on behalf of our nation and are one of the most at-risk populations in the country. That's why ensuring they quickly receive the vaccine is of the upmost importance. I will continue working with VA and other Administration officials to ensure every West Virginian has access to a COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as possible, Senator Manchin said. This announcement comes after Senator Manchin sent a letter this week calling on the VA to provide an explanation for the exclusion of many rural Veterans, including West Virginia Veterans, from the VA's initial COVID-19 vaccine distribution and implementation plan. Senator Manchin also implored the VA to prioritize rural VAMCs for initial distribution of the vaccine at last week's Senate Veterans Affairs Committee hearing. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-receives-covid-19-vaccine,Manchin Receives COVID-19 Vaccine,2020-12-19,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 19, 2020 Manchin Receives COVID-19 Vaccine Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, in accordance with guidance from the Office of the Attending Physician. The attending physician's office notified all Senators that we are to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in order to maintain continuity of government. Following this guidance, I received the vaccine this morning from the attending physician in Washington and am feeling well. In addition to receiving the vaccine, I will continue following the recommendations from the CDC by wearing a mask and practicing social distancing to keep myself and others as safe as possible. This vaccination is an important step towards defeating this virus and I encourage all West Virginians to receive it when it becomes available in your area, said Senator Manchin. But we are not out of the woods yet. I urge Congressional leadership to finalize a COVID-19 emergency relief package to provide Americans with the urgent support they desperately need to make it through the next few months. As leadership continues to negotiate I encourage them to include the bipartisan, bicameral agreement we shared earlier this week in the final package. A video of Senator Manchin receiving the COVID-19 vaccine can be found here. To view photos of Senator Manchin receiving the vaccine, please click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/bipartisan-bicameral-group-finish-what-we-started,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Group: Finish What We Started",2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 18, 2020 Bipartisan, Bicameral Group: Finish What We Started Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mark Warner (D-VA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Angus King (I-ME), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Rob Portman (R-OH), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) and Tom Reed (R-NY-23) called on Congress to deliver immediate COVID-19 relief to the American people. Earlier this week, the Senators and the Problem Solvers Caucus shared two bills, one of which, the bipartisan COVID-19 Emergency Relief Act of 2020, is serving as the framework for the final COVID-19 relief package. Today we find ourselves in the middle of a global pandemic that has taken the lives of more than 310,000 Americans, and hours away from a government shutdown that threatens to delay urgent aid to people in need throughout the nation. We must set our differences aside. The American people elected us to govern on their behalf, and at a time when they need us more than ever we must end the partisan games and meet this moment together for the good of the country. On Monday, our bipartisan, bicameral group presented a bill that helps provide for the emergency needs of the millions of families struggling to make ends meet. Once again, we encourage the leaders to finish what we started and deliver immediate assistance to the workers, families and businesses that need it most. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-meets-with-monongalia-county-officials-to-discuss-announced-closure-of-viatris-morgantown-facility,Manchin Meets With Monongalia County Officials To Discuss Announced Closure Of Viatris Morgantown Facility,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 18, 2020 Manchin Meets With Monongalia County Officials To Discuss Announced Closure Of Viatris Morgantown Facility Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) joined a virtual meeting with the Monongalia County Commission, state legislators and economic development stakeholders to discuss the announced closure of the Morgantown Viatris manufacturing facility and potential opportunities to assist the 1,500 employees affected by the closure. The announced closure of the Morgantown Viatris manufacturing facility is devastating news for the Morgantown community, especially the 1,500 workers and their families who are directly impacted by this closure. Today's meeting was the first step to finding a solution, and I'll continue to work with local, state and federal leaders, Viatris, and other parties to help the workers find employment or training for new skills, and hopefully find a buyer to continue utilizing the plant. I am committed to doing everything possible to help our fellow West Virginians affected by this decision, Senator Manchin said. Senator Manchin's statement on the announcement can be found here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/bipartisan-bicameral-group-urges-leadership-to-continue-moving-forward-on-covid-19-emergency-relief-package,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Group Urges Leadership To Continue Moving Forward On COVID-19 Emergency Relief Package",2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 17, 2020 Bipartisan, Bicameral Group Urges Leadership To Continue Moving Forward On COVID-19 Emergency Relief Package Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mark Warner (D-VA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Angus King (I-ME), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Rob Portman (R-OH), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) and Tom Reed (R-NY-23) urged Senate and House Leadership to continue moving forward to finalize a COVID-19 emergency relief package. Earlier this week, the Senators and the Problem Solvers Caucus shared two bills, one of which, the bipartisan COVID-19 Emergency Relief Act of 2020, is serving as the framework for the final COVID-19 relief package. This pandemic has been devastating for millions of Americans and without Congressional action they will lose the lifelines that are keeping them afloat. We appreciate the ongoing efforts of Leader McConnell, Speaker Pelosi, Leader Schumer and Leader McCarthy to craft an emergency COVID-19 relief package that will help the American people weather the next few months of this pandemic. We know first-hand how hard it can be to find common ground on some of these issues. We encourage the leaders and their staff to continue this important work. By working together, we can and we will deliver immediate assistance to the workers, the families, and the businesses that need it most. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-exclusion-of-west-virginia-veterans-from-initial-va-covid-19-vaccination-plan-is-unaccaptable,Manchin: Exclusion Of West Virginia Veterans From Initial VA COVID-19 Vaccination Plan Is Unacceptable,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 17, 2020 Manchin: Exclusion Of West Virginia Veterans From Initial VA COVID-19 Vaccination Plan Is Unacceptable Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) called on the Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Robert Wilkie to provide an explanation for the exclusion of many rural Veterans, including West Virginia Veterans, from the VA's initial COVID-19 vaccine distribution and implementation plan. Last week, during a Senate Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Senator Manchin also asked the VA about the plans to assist rural areas with distributing the COVID-19 vaccine. Senator Manchin said in part, The distribution of the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, which is both safe and effective, is a decisive moment in the fight against this horrible virus. On December 15th, 2020 the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) released the VA COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan, outlining the order in which Veterans and VA employees would receive coronavirus vaccines as doses become available. As expected, the plan initially prioritizes frontline Healthcare Workers (HCWs) and the highest-risk Veterans. However, the plan does not outline when and how rural states like West Virginia will be incorporated into the prioritization West Virginia is one of the most patriotic states in the country with a long history of answering the call to defend our nation. That unique service, however, also makes West Virginia Veterans especially vulnerable to the global pandemic we are now battling. The safety and well-being of every West Virginian must remain our top priority. Read the letter in full below or click here. Dear Secretary Wilkie, The distribution of the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, which is both safe and effective, is a decisive moment in the fight against this horrible virus. On December 15th, 2020 the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) released the VA COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan, outlining the order in which Veterans and VA employees would receive coronavirus vaccines as doses become available. As expected, the plan initially prioritizes frontline Healthcare Workers (HCWs) and the highest-risk Veterans. However, the plan does not outline when and how rural states like West Virginia will be incorporated into the prioritization. The VA has now received its first 73,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine to be distributed to 37 hospitals within the VA. Not a single one of those first 37 hospitals are located in West Virginia, and I worry that the VA is not taking into account the unique health challenges West Virginia Veterans face. My office has learned that the while the four Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs) in West Virginia have been training, conducting exercises, and preparing to receive the vaccine, they have not been briefed by the VA Central Office (VACO) on a specific timeline for when to expect delivery. How will the VA ensure Veterans living in rural areas receive equitable access to a vaccine? I urge the Secretary to immediately make public any plans to prioritize rural Veterans and publish a specific timeline for when West Virginia Veterans can expect to see the first doses delivered to VAMCs in my state. While it may make logistical sense to prioritize VA hospitals with high population density, we have the most vulnerable population in the country. Our more than 140,000 Veterans are older and have higher levels of pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease that make them especially susceptible to developing a severe illness if they become infected with the virus. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, West Virginia has the most at-risk population in the United States, with 49% of all adults over the age 18 at-risk of serious illness if infected. Additionally, West Virginia has one of the oldest Veteran populations in the country with 60% of our Veterans older than the age of 60. Only 15% of West Virginia Veterans have served post- 9/11, the rest have served in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and Gulf War eras. I understand that cold temperature storage for the vaccines are a key issue and contribute to your logistics challenges. For example, the Pfizer vaccine must be stored at -94 F and the Moderna vaccine at -4 F. How will VA secure the refrigeration and transport equipment needed to safely ship and stock potential COVID-19 vaccine doses at rural locations? West Virginia Veterans should not be placed lower on the priority list simply because the VA has not yet invested in cold storage units in rural areas. West Virginia is one of the most patriotic states in the country with a long history of answering the call to defend our nation. That unique service, however, also makes West Virginia Veterans especially vulnerable to the global pandemic we are now battling. The safety and well-being of every West Virginian must remain our top priority. Veterans across West Virginia have raised their hand to defend and protect our nation again and again and are no strangers to thriving during difficult times. However, the fact is that West Virginia Veterans' age and the physical nature of military service make them uniquely vulnerable to this threat. We must do everything we can to vaccinate and protect these Veterans, who have already given so much. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/house-passes-bill-to-improve-transparency-at-clarksburg-va-medical-center,House Passes Bill To Improve Transparency At Clarksburg VA Medical Center,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 17, 2020 House Passes Bill To Improve Transparency At Clarksburg VA Medical Center Washington, DC Last night, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed The Improving Safety and Security for Veterans Act of 2019, which was introduced in the U.S. Senate by U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives David McKinley (R-WV), Alex Mooney (R-WV) and Carol Miller (R-WV). The bill passed the Senate in December 2019 and will be sent to the President for approval. This bipartisan legislation will require the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to submit detailed reports on patient safety and quality of care at VA Medical Centers (VAMC) in light of the recent deaths of Veterans at the Clarksburg VAMC. The legislation ensures that Congress, Veterans, and their families are fully informed on the policies and procedures in place across the VA nationally. Additionally, this bill requires the VA, once the criminal investigations are completed, to submit a detailed report and timeline of events surrounding the deaths at the Clarksburg VAMC. I am pleased the House of Representatives unanimously passed this bipartisan, commonsense legislation that will help increase transparency at the VA. We have faced issues of transparency surrounding the murder of at least seven Veterans at the Clarksburg VAMC, resulting in a lack of confidence in the VA. I can't imagine having a loved one murdered while in the VA's care and after almost two years still not knowing the full picture. I look forward to the President signing this legislation into law and helping bring justice and peace of mind to our Veterans and their families, said Senator Manchin. The horrifying murders at the Clarksburg VAMC were a gruesome wakeup call underscoring the need for a more thorough look at security systems and procedures across the VAMC system. This bill is a step forward to help ensure our veterans are protected and safely cared for while in VA hands, said Senator Capito. We cannot begin to understand the grief and anger of the families whose loved ones were killed at the Clarksburg VA, said Representative McKinley. Our bipartisan bill will ensure more transparency and accountability within the VA. It will also provide Congress with a better understanding of what happened in Clarksburg, and how to prevent it from ever happening again. I was proud to vote for the Improving Safety and Security for Veterans Act, which will improve patient safety at VA medical facilities. Those who served our nation in the military deserve not only our utmost respect, but also our continued care once they leave military service. The murder of at least seven Veterans at the Clarksburg VA should never be allowed to happen again, said Representative Mooney. As an original cosponsor of this legislation, I am glad that Congress was able to come together to bring necessary change and oversight of our VA Medical Centers in order to ensure that our veterans have confidence in the quality of health care they deserve, said Representative Miller. What happened at the Clarksburg and Beckley VA facilities this past year were absolute tragedies, and my heart goes out to the victims and the families of those who suffered. Through the passage of this bill, I am optimistic that Congress has taken lasting steps to restore faith in the VA healthcare system that our Veterans depend on. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/as-covid-19-cases-rise-manchin-encourages-enforcement-of-west-virginia-public-indoor-mask-order,"As COVID-19 Cases Rise, Manchin Encourages Enforcement Of West Virginia Public Indoor Mask Order",2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 13, 2020 As COVID-19 Cases Rise, Manchin Encourages Enforcement Of West Virginia Public Indoor Mask Order Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) encourages Governor Jim Justice to update his public indoor mask order with an enforcement mechanism as COVID-19 cases rise across West Virginia at the highest rate since the pandemic began. Across West Virginia COVID-19 cases are rising faster than ever before. Public health experts have continued to remind us that wearing a mask is the most commonsense, reasonable way to slow the spread of COVID-19 to protect our family, friends and neighbors during this pandemic without shutting down our economy. I encourage Governor Justice to update his public indoor mask order with an enforcement mechanism. I don't expect an enforcement mechanism will be popular but clearly what we are currently doing is not enough to slow the spread. If we can't get our COVID-19 cases under control, our businesses, families and communities will suffer. Properly wearing masks allows us the opportunity to keep our schools and economy open. It's up to us to take action and do our part to keep our fellow West Virginians safe by wearing a mask in public indoor spaces, said Senator Manchin. According to West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, West Virginia has 8,531 active cases and 742 were confirmed in the last 24 hours. The state has a positivity rate of 3.14% which is among the highest it has been since the pandemic began. 565 West Virginians have lost their lives to COVID-19. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-286-million-to-heat-west-virginia-homes,"Manchin, Capito Announce $28.6 Million To Heat West Virginia Homes",2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 13, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $28.6 Million To Heat West Virginia Homes Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $28,631,377 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to heat low income West Virginia homes. As we head into the colder months, over 48,000 West Virginians need help with heating their homes and keeping their families warm. In October, I wrote to HHS Secretary Azar urging him to release the LIHEAP funds so we could make sure West Virginians are warm during these winter months, and I am pleased they heeded the request, said Senator Manchin. Every West Virginian deserves to have a roof over their head and a warm place to sleep, and I will continue to fight for funding that helps provide our fellow West Virginians with these basic necessities. As we transition into the colder winter months in West Virginia, assistance from LIHEAP can make all the difference for some of our families. Making certain that this program was continued though the appropriations process was a top priority and as a result, will provide assistance directly to those who need it most. I will continue to use my role on the Senate Appropriations Committee to advocate for West Virginia needs and drive critical resources to our state, said Senator Capito. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-50th-anniversary-of-the-marshall-university-football-plane-crash,Manchin Statement On 50th Anniversary Of The Marshall University Football Plane Crash,2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 13, 2020 Manchin Statement On 50th Anniversary Of The Marshall University Football Plane Crash Charleston, WV U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on the 50th anniversary of the Marshall University football team plane crash on November 14th, 1970. Fifty years ago, the devastating loss of 75 people, including members of the Marshall football team and Huntington community, shook our state and the entire nation to our core. The Marshall University community mourned the loss of their classmates, family and friends. And in the aftermath of this horrific loss, through the tremendous strength of West Virginians and the Thundering Herd family, hope rose from the ashes. The unyielding spirit of this community is a true testament to those we lost on that dreadful night and they will never be forgotten. Today, we all remember those who are not with us and honor their contributions to our great state and to Marshall University. Their memories live on as the Marshall community continues to thrive. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-1-million-in-epa-funding,"Manchin, Capito Announce $1 Million In EPA Funding",2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 12, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $1 Million In EPA Funding Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $1,071,361 from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for West Virginia. Funding will support air and water pollution control, provide resources for the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, and promote initiatives at West Virginia's higher education institutions. West Virginians deserve to live in communities with clean water and fresh air that are safe places to work and raise families. This funding will support projects across the Mountain State to upgrade infrastructure, expand sustainability, and provide protections needed to help our communities thrive. We must do all we can to keep West Virginia wild and wonderful and I will continue to support these efforts, said Senator Manchin. This funding from EPA is welcome news as it will support environmental initiatives on a multitude of fronts, from our state and local health departments to our higher education institutions. The natural beauty of West Virginia is recognized across the world, and we must take the necessary steps to protect our environment while supporting job creation. I thank EPA for their continued support of programs across West Virginia,said Senator Capito. Individual awards listed below: West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection: Hazardous Waste Management State Program Support $310,931 West Virginia Department of Health & Human Resources: Performance Partnership Grants $274,469 West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection: Air Pollution Control Program Support $250,000 West Virginia University: Regional Wetlands Program Development Grants $151,053 West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection: Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund Program Corrective Action Program $59,962 Marshall University Research Corp: National Student Design Competition for Sustainability $24,946 Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-join-bipartisan-push-to-protect-west-virginia-air-national-guard-aircraft-from-elimination,"Manchin, Capito Join Bipartisan Push To Protect West Virginia Air National Guard Aircraft From Elimination",2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 12, 2020 Manchin, Capito Join Bipartisan Push To Protect West Virginia Air National Guard Aircraft From Elimination Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV)joined a bipartisan Senate coalition advocating for a large enough C-130 aircraft fleet in West Virginia and across the country to support active duty missions as well as respond to disasters and emergencies at home. Specifically, the senators and their colleagues wrote a letter urging Armed Services Committee conferees to make sure the final National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) bill adopts House language so that the nation maintains an adequate inventory of C-130 aircraft. The members said in part, Our Air National Guard C-130 flying wings provide nearly half of the Air Force's tactical airlift capability. For more than 50 years, we have brought Americans into combat, provided humanitarian relief around the globe, and supported domestic response throughout the nation. As the Air Force proposes changes to align our force structure with the National Defense Strategy (NDS), it is vitally important we do not trade experience and knowhow in pursuit of expensive, less defined capabilities. The ANG C-130 fleet has been the backbone of our tactical airlift capability for a generation. Our ANG wings have built experience and expertise through repeated deployments and domestic operations. Hard choices will be required as we restructure the Air Force to face future foreign and domestic challenges. Therefore, we must make informed, data driven, decisions as we manage the C-130 fleet. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to incorporate House Section 1043 supporting a [Total Aircraft Inventory] of 292 C-130 Aircraft in the final Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, the members concluded. In addition to Senators Manchin and Capito, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), and Kelly Loeffler (R-Ga.). Read the full letter below or click here. Dear Chairmen and Ranking Members: We write in support of House Section 1043 which would require the Air Force maintain a Total Aircraft Inventory (TAI) of 292 C-130 aircraft in the final Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. As Senators from states that have Air National Guard (ANG) C-130 wings, we are deeply concerned by the effects a lower minimum number of C-130s would have. Our Air National Guard C-130 flying wings provide nearly half of the Air Force's tactical airlift capability. For more than 50 years, we have brought Americans into combat, provided humanitarian relief around the globe, and supported domestic response throughout the nation. As the Air Force proposes changes to align our force structure with the National Defense Strategy (NDS), it is vitally important we do not trade experience and knowhow in pursuit of expensive, less defined capabilities. The Senate's proposed language takes the approach of setting a minimum number of C-130 aircraft in the fleet by adopting a Primary Mission Aircraft Inventory (PMAI) of 230 aircraft. Unlike the House approach, mandating PMAI alone does not account for training aircraft inventory requirements or backup aircraft needed to support maintenance inspection and depot requirements. This disconnect could hamper the ANG's readiness and training capabilities due to a potential lack of training assets and extended maintenance downtime. The House's proposed TAI of 292 C-130s sets an aircraft minimum that accounts for all aircraft, including the training and maintenance needs of the C-130 fleet. In fact, the 2018 Mobility Capabilities and Requirements Study recommended a TAI of 300 C-130s to support combatant commanders' wartime mobility requirements. Further, House Section 1043 is supported by 14 governors from states whose ANGs have C-130 flying missions. As these governors highlighted in a recent letter to your committees, Section 1043 would ensure that their ANG wings can continue to support the nation's essential worldwide and domestic contingencies. As such, the 292 C-130 TAI would allow the ANG to support the NDS without inhibiting the Guard's unique domestic missions responding to natural disasters and other emergencies. The ANG C-130 fleet has been the backbone of our tactical airlift capability for a generation. Our ANG wings have built experience and expertise through repeated deployments and domestic operations. Hard choices will be required as we restructure the Air Force to face future foreign and domestic challenges. Therefore, we must make informed, data driven, decisions as we manage the C-130 fleet. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to incorporate House Section 1043 supporting a TAI of 292 C-130 Aircraft in the final Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-veterans-day,Manchin Statement On Veterans Day,2020-11-11,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 11, 2020 Manchin Statement On Veterans Day Washington, DC U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on honoring our brave Veterans today. West Virginia is one of the most patriotic states in America. When I travel across the state, I ask how many people have family who served or are serving in the Armed Forces. Every time, almost every hand goes up because service is part of being a West Virginian. On this Veterans Day, let's join together to celebrate and honor all of our brave Veterans who sacrificed so much to keep our nation safe. Veterans show us that through service to our country and to our fellow Americans, we can come together to heal our nation. Today, I ask all West Virginians to thank a Veteran in their life for their service and sacrifice. These Veterans are our family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. We are forever indebted to our Veterans and service members, and their patriotism should never go unrecognized. Let us all show our sincere thanks for their willingness to put their fellow Americans before themselves to make sure we sleep soundly at night, knowing we are protected. Those who have served know that no matter your background or political beliefs, we are all Americans and must protect and defend our great country. It is their unwavering commitment to our nation that makes me proud to be an American. May God continue to bless our Veterans, the United States, and great state of West Virginia. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-supreme-court-hearing-oral-arguments-for-affordable-care-act-challenge,Manchin Statement On Supreme Court Hearing Oral Arguments For Affordable Care Act Challenge,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 10, 2020 Manchin Statement On Supreme Court Hearing Oral Arguments For Affordable Care Act Challenge Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) issued the following statement on the Supreme Court of the United States hearing oral arguments in the challenge to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), California v. Texas. Today the Supreme Court is hearing oral arguments for a challenge to the ACA that could determine whether 800,000 West Virginians with preexisting conditions will have healthcare coverage. TheCOVID-19 pandemic has killed over 238,000 Americans and caused record numbers to lose their employee sponsored healthcare, leaving millions without coverage. It is clear Americans need healthcare coverage now more than ever.West Virginians may not remember who gave them access to healthcare but they'll certainly remember who took it away.According to the West Virginians for Affordable Health Care (WVAFC), West Virginia would be the second most affected state if the ACA is repealed, resulting in a devastating $1 billion loss in direct federal funding. While the ACA is not perfect, we simply can't throw the baby out with the bath water. I firmly believe Congress can work in a bipartisan way to improve the affordability and flexibility of health insurance. In fact, I have a bipartisan bill with my colleague Senator Susan Collins that would help cover the cost of the sickest, most expensive patients so that we can reduce premiums for everyone. Instead of continuing to attack access to healthcare, I urge more Republican lawmakers and Attorneys General to join with me and my Democrat colleagues to fix the parts of the ACA in need of repair. Every West Virginian and American deserves access to quality, affordable health insurance and I will continue fighting in the Senate to protect that access. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-the-death-of-former-west-virginia-supreme-court-justice-richard-neely,Manchin Statement On The Death Of Former West Virginia Supreme Court Justice Richard Neely,2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 09, 2020 Manchin Statement On The Death Of Former West Virginia Supreme Court Justice Richard Neely Washington, DC U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on the passing of former West Virginia Supreme Court Justice Richard Neely. Gayle and I send our heartfelt condolences to Justice Richard Neely's wife Carolyn, his sons John and Whittaker, and their entire family. Richard has been a close family friend since his days as a young lawyer in Fairmont after returning from serving in Vietnam. Richard continued to give back to his community, serving in the House of Delegates and later becoming a West Virginia Supreme Court Justice, serving West Virginians until 1995. This is a sad day for all West Virginians, and our thoughts and prayers are with Richard's family and loved ones who are mourning this loss. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-urges-west-virginians-to-apply-for-health-insurance-during-aca-open-enrollment-period,Manchin Urges West Virginians To Apply For Health Insurance During ACA Open Enrollment Period,2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 09, 2020 Manchin Urges West Virginians To Apply For Health Insurance During ACA Open Enrollment Period Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) urged West Virginians to apply for health insurance coverage during the Affordable Care Act (ACA) open enrollment period, which ends on December 15th, 2020. The ACA has provided more than 180,000 West Virginians with health insurance, ensuring our family, friends, and neighbors have access to the healthcare they need and deserve. This year's open enrollment period will allow West Virginians and Americans to apply for healthcare coverage during one of the most devastating healthcare crises our nation has faced. Every West Virginian deserves to have access to affordable, reliable healthcare, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. To apply and enroll, visit healthcare.gov to find a plan that works for you and your family. West Virginia also offers free enrollment assistance to all in-state residents through the WV Navigator. You can learn more at acanavigator.com/wv/home or call at 1-844-WV-CARES. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-presidential-election-outcome,Manchin Statement On Presidential Election Outcome,2020-11-07,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 07, 2020 Manchin Statement On Presidential Election Outcome Charleston, WV U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on the outcome of the Presidential election. After an unprecedented election the American people have spoken; Joe Biden is our President-elect for all Americans, not just those who voted for him. Now, more than ever, it is time for us to come together to end the toxic political tribalism and invest in the values and principles that make our nation the greatest country on Earth. As I have always said and believed, I will work with anyone, no matter their party, to improve the lives of West Virginians and all Americans. I trust President-elect Biden will lead our democracy with compassion, and restore the decency and respect that ensures no one is left behind by his Administration. Just as they always have, my voice and vote in the United States Senate will focus on making sure the priorities of West Virginians are heard loud and clear as we join together in working with President-elect Biden on bipartisan solutions to the challenges facing our nation. I have full trust and confidence in our voting process and any claims of fraudulent activity will be dealt with by our court system. I hope all Americans will join me as we put partisanship aside and set our nation on a path toward renewed prosperity. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-32-million-to-protect-communities-improve-data-collection,"Manchin, Capito Announce $3.2 Million To Protect Communities, Improve Data Collection",2020-11-06,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 06, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $3.2 Million To Protect Communities, Improve Data Collection Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $3,203,020 from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat violent crime and improve data recording in West Virginia. This funding was made available through DOJ's Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP), and the State Justice Statistics (SJS) program. West Virginians should feel safe in their communities, and this funding will help the justice system in West Virginia protect our fellow West Virginians by combatting violent crime and supporting data collection. I am pleased by this investment in our state and I will continue to advocate for funding that helps West Virginians stay safe, said Senator Manchin. It is important that we equip our state's Division of Justice and Community Services, Supreme Court of Appeals, and community partners with the resources they need to do their job properly, and keep West Virginians safe. I am encouraged to see this funding coming to bolster justice and reduce crime within our state, and thank the DOJ for their continued support of initiatives in West Virginia,Senator Capito said. Individual awards listed below: 2005 State Justice Statistics (SJS) Program for Statistical Analysis Centers (SAC): Supreme Court Of Appeals Of West Virginia $1,739,332 National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP): West Virginia Division Of Justice And Community Services $1,374,733 The Project Safe Neighborhoods: Young Women's Christian Association Of Wheeling $690,553 The Project Safe Neighborhoods: West Virginia Division Of Justice And Community Services $77,758 Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-19-million-eda-investment-for-marshall-county-water-service,"Manchin, Capito Announce $1.9 Million EDA Investment For Marshall County Water Service",2020-11-05,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 05, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $1.9 Million EDA Investment For Marshall County Water Service Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $1,900,000 in federal funding for Grandview Doolin Public Service District in Proctor, West Virginia. This funding was made available through the Economic Development Administration (EDA) and will be used for water infrastructure to provide potable water service to industrial customers in Marshall County. Additionally, this EDA investment, which will be located in an Opportunity Zone, will be matched with $1.3 million in local investment and is expected to spur $135 million in private investment. Creating jobs and opportunities across West Virginia is a top priority of mine, and I am pleased to see the EDA investing in Marshall County. In April I supported this project application, and now this funding will support infrastructure upgrades that will help industrial users in the area retain and create approximately 75 jobs, leverage more than $100 million in private follow-on investment, and allow for the development of additional commercial and industrial sites. West Virginia and our federal partners must continue investing in infrastructure projects like this to attract new companies and grow existing businesses in our state. I will continue working with the EDA and other agencies to ensure West Virginia continues to see infrastructure investments, said Senator Manchin. West Virginians deserve access to clean water and reliable infrastructure to deliver it to our homes and businesses. Investments like this from the EDA help make these improvements, while also spurring economic development and improving the lives of West Virginians. As chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I have fought to ensure West Virginia receives the support we need to improve our infrastructure both above and below the ground. EDA has been a steadfast partner in this mission, and I am grateful for their continuous support to our state. This project will help fuel local economies by utilizing Opportunity Zones, and I look forward to its implementation in Marshall County,said Senator Capito. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-indictment-of-clarksburg-vamc-physician,Manchin Statement On Indictment Of Clarksburg VAMC Physician,2020-11-05,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 05, 2020 Manchin Statement On Indictment Of Clarksburg VAMC Physician Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on the indictment of Dr. Kenneth Ramdat, a physician at the Clarksburg Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC), for alleged abusive sexual contact and simple assault. The climate and culture of our VA Medical Centers starts at the top. If the allegations against Dr. Kenneth Ramdat are proven true, it is yet another sign that the Clarksburg VAMC leadership have abdicated their duty to the staff, the Veterans in their care, and all West Virginians as heinous behavior continues to occur under their watch. It is simply unacceptable that our Veterans and staff are not in a safe environment at the Clarksburg VAMC. How many more West Virginians and Veterans must endure this inexcusable treatment before action is taken to fix these systemic issues? As a pattern of negligence continues to emerge, action must be taken to right these wrongs. As a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, I will ensure these systemic problems at the Clarksburg VAMC are thoroughly investigated, and I hope that as this case progresses, the women affected by these alleged actions receive justice, said Senator Manchin. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-12-million-for-maternal-and-child-health-services,"Manchin, Capito Announce $1.2 Million For Maternal And Child Health Services",2020-11-02,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 02, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $1.2 Million For Maternal And Child Health Services Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $1,221,801 for the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) to support maternal and child health services in West Virginia. This funding is made available by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). West Virginia mothers and children deserve to have accessible, affordable health services no matter where they live in our state. This funding will help the West Virginia DHHR ensure that our children, infants, and mothers have the help they need during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I am pleased that West Virginia is receiving this funding and will continue to fight for programs that support our families here in the Mountain State, said Senator Manchin. Ensuring that our mothers, infants, and young families have access to the proper health resources they need is incredibly important, especially as we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic,said Senator Capito.With increased reliance and responsibility within our state health departments, it is crucial that we provide the appropriate level of support so that West Virginians can continue to receive the services they rely on regularly. I am thankful that HHS has recognized the need for this support and will continue to advocate for the women and children of our state. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-drug-free-community-grant-in-elkview,"Manchin, Capito Announce Drug Free Community Grant In Elkview",2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 30, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce Drug Free Community Grant In Elkview Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $125,000 for the Regional Family Resource Network, Inc., in Elkview through the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program. This funding was made available through the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) and will help establish collaboration among communities to prevent and reduce substance abuse among young people. The Drug Free Communities program has been instrumental in combatting and preventing drug misuse and abuse in communities across America, and especially among our youth, said Senator Manchin. West Virginia has been hit hard by the drug epidemic, and I am pleased the ONDCP is partnering with the Regional Family Resource Network in Elkview to provide support to the youth in their community. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee I will continue to support funding for programs that support our youth and combat substance misuse. As we continue to battle the opioid epidemic in West Virginia, it is clear that a collaborative effort between local, state, and federal partners provides a holistic approach and helps save lives,said Senator Capito. Just this year, I have hosted White House ONDCP Director Jim Carroll inWilliamson,Logan, andHuntingtonto show how opioids are directly impacting our communities and to see how communities throughout the state are tackling this problem head-on. Providing comprehensive services to those in the grip of addiction and preventative efforts to block illegal narcotics from entering our state remain top priorities. I will continue to advocate for the resources and policy our communities need in West Virginia to help end the opioid epidemic. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-rides-cardinal-train-to-montgomery-amtrak-station-ribbon-cutting,Manchin Rides Cardinal Train To Montgomery Amtrak Station Ribbon Cutting,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 30, 2020 Manchin Rides Cardinal Train To Montgomery Amtrak Station Ribbon Cutting Montgomery, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) rode the Cardinal Train from Charleston to Montgomery for the Montgomery Amtrak Station ribbon cutting ceremony following a $1.8 million remodel to ensure the platform is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. I was honored to ride the Cardinal train from Charleston to Montgomery today to celebrate the renovations made at the Amtrak station. The impact of Amtrak in our state cannot be understated. For generations, Amtrak has provided safe, reliable and affordable travel. In rural parts of our state and most of our state is rural Amtrak provides a vital transportation service. Today's investment is evidence of Amtrak's continued commitment to serving each and every West Virginian. I applaud this effort and promise you I will continue to do my part in Washington to protect the Cardinal line and ensure it is accessible for everyone for many years to come, said Senator Manchin. To view photos, please click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-commerce-hearing-highlights-need-for-bipartisan-manchin-bill-to-amend-section-230,Senate Commerce Hearing Highlights Need For Bipartisan Manchin Bill To Amend Section 230,2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 28, 2020 Senate Commerce Hearing Highlights Need For Bipartisan Manchin Bill To Amend Section 230 Manchin, Cornyn bill would amend Section 230 to stop illicit sale of opioids and other drugs online Charleston, WV Today, the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee held a hearing on Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act and the need for updates to the law, including changes to address illegal Internet activity. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) recently introduced the bipartisan See Something, Say Something Online Act to amend Section 230 to require companies to report illegal activities online, including the sale of opioids and other drugs, or lose their privileges under the law. Since the creation of Section 230 over two decades ago, the Internet has changed drastically and our laws have failed to keep up. Today's Senate Commerce hearing highlighted the need for Congress to update Section 230 to reflect the way we use the Internet today both good and bad. That includes the increasing use of social media platforms to buy and sell illegal drugs, and the lack of cooperation between many companies and law enforcement to stop these illegal activities. While many debate how to update Section 230, Senator Cornyn and I have introduced bipartisan, commonsense legislationto address illegal activities online. Stopping the sale of illegal opioids is something we can all agree on and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join my bipartisan, commonsense legislation to address these issues online, said Senator Manchin. The See Something, Say Something Online Act would change Section 230 by: Requiring companies to report suspicious activity to law enforcement, similar to the way that banks are required to report suspicious transactions over $10,000 or others that might signal criminal activity. Creating a system similar to the Bank Secrecy Act by authorizing the creation of an office within the Department of Justice (DOJ) to act as the clearinghouse for these reports, similar to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) within the Department of Treasury. Raising the threshold for reporting to serious crimes like illegal drug sales, hate crimes, murder, or terrorism to ensure that users' privacy remains safe. Requiring that companies must take reasonable steps to prevent or address unlawful activity and can be held liable if they fail to report criminal activity. Background information on the See Something, Say Something Online Act can be found here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/west-virginia-delegation-urges-president-trump-to-designate-state-funeral-for-last-surviving-wwii-medal-of-honor-recipient,West Virginia Delegation Urges President Trump To Designate State Funeral For Last Surviving WWII Medal of Honor Recipient,2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 28, 2020 West Virginia Delegation Urges President Trump To Designate State Funeral For Last Surviving WWII Medal of Honor Recipient Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), along with Representatives David McKinley (R-WV), Alex Mooney (R-WV), and Carol Miller (R-WV) today sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump urging him to designate a state funeral for the last surviving World War II Medal of Honor recipient. Last year, the delegation wrote a similar letter to the president. We are writing you again to encourage you to designate a single state funeral for the last surviving World War II Medal of Honor recipient, which would not only recognize that one veteran, but all 16 million men and women who put their lives on the line during the war to defend the freedoms that we hold dear, the delegation wrote. Read the full letter below or click here. Dear Mr. President: We are writing you again to encourage you to designate a single state funeral for the last surviving World War II Medal of Honor recipient, which would not only recognize that one veteran, but all 16 million men and women who put their lives on the line during the war to defend the freedoms that we hold dear. As West Virginia's congressional delegation, it is an incredible honor to call one of the two remaining recipients, U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Hershel Woody Williams, our own. During the Battle of Iwo Jima, Woody Williams valiantly stormed pillboxes with his flamethrower, as the last American demolition sergeant on the beach, clearing the way for his fellow soldiers. Of the 472 Medal of Honor recipients from WWII, Woody Williams is joined by U.S. Army Technical Sergeant Charles Coolidge of Tennessee as the two still living. Woody Williams has said, This medal doesn't belong to me. It belongs to them, because they gave their lives for me, I was just doing a job that I was trained to do. We urge you to designate a state funeral for the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient because it would not only recognize these two men, but all who were doing the jobs that they were trained to do. The sacrifices of all who served during World War II have not gone unrecognized, but it is crucial that we as a nation continue to show our immense gratitude for the greatest generation. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-votes-early-in-fairmont-encourages-west-virginians-to-vote,"Manchin Votes Early In Fairmont, Encourages West Virginians To Vote",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 27, 2020 Manchin Votes Early In Fairmont, Encourages West Virginians To Vote Fairmont, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) voted in person at the Marion County Courthouse Annex and encouraged West Virginians to vote. Today I exercised my right to vote by voting early and in person in Fairmont, where I vote in every election. Early voting is open through Saturday and if you are unable to vote early, make sure to vote on November 3rd because everyone should have their voice heard. West Virginians can find more election information at https://sos.wv.gov/elections/Pages/GoVoteWV.aspx. To view Senator Manchin's video on voting in West Virginia, please click here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-votes-against-supreme-court-nominee-process,Manchin Votes Against Supreme Court Nominee Process,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 26, 2020 Manchin Votes Against Supreme Court Nominee Process Washington, DC U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on his vote against the rushed confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to fill the vacancy on the Supreme Court of the United States. Today the Senate took unprecedented action never before seen in the 240 year history of our country, but it didn't have to be this way. Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans chose a dangerous, partisan path to push through the confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett eight days before this year's November 3rd election further politicizing the highest court in the land. The facts are clearnever before has the president nominated and the Senate confirmed a Supreme Court justice between July and Election Day in a presidential election year. This degradation of Senate norms and procedures didn't start with the confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett and it won't end here. The U.S. Senate is supposed to be the greatest deliberative body in the world and perhaps we used to be. But each time a Senate majority regardless of party changes the rules, we reduce the incentive to work together across party lines. Instead, the partisan governing of the last ten years and the rushed nomination of Judge Barrett only fans the flames of division at a time when Americans are deeply divided. Judge Barrett's nomination and the confirmation process are far from business as usual. I cannot support the nomination of Judge Barrett to the Supreme Court of the United States on the eve of a Presidential election. It is simple - this nomination should have waited until after the election. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-welcomes-west-virginia-national-guard-157th-military-police-company-home,Manchin Welcomes West Virginia National Guard 157th Military Police Company Home,2020-10-24,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 24, 2020 Manchin Welcomes West Virginia National Guard 157th Military Police Company Home Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) welcomed the 157th Military Police Company of the West Virginia Army National Guard safely home. On behalf of all West Virginians, I'm proud to welcome home our National Guardsmen who have served our nation honorably. When I served as Governor of West Virginia, my greatest honor was serving as Commander in Chief of the best National Guard in the nation. West Virginia's National Guard has helped keep America safe for generations, and these soldiers carry on that legacy. I'm thankful our troops have returned home safely and we are forever grateful for the sacrifices they, and their loved ones, have made to keep our country safe. Welcome home, said Senator Manchin. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/10/23/2020/manchin-urges-west-virginians-to-participate-in-drug-take-back-day-this-saturday,Manchin Urges West Virginians To Participate In Drug Take Back Day This Saturday,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 23, 2020 Manchin Urges West Virginians To Participate In Drug Take Back Day This Saturday Washington, DC U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) urges West Virginians to participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) National Drug Take-Back Day this Saturday, October 24th. Drug Take-Back Day is an opportunity for the public to prevent prescription drug abuse and theft by disposing of expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. Drug Take-Back Day is a great program that helps raise awareness about the dangers of leftover medicines while also protecting our communities, family, and friends by safely disposing medications that can be abused. Every West Virginian can tell you how the drug epidemic has impacted their lives, and prescription drug abuse continues to hurt our communities in the Mountain State. Drug Take-Back Day is a commonsense initiative we can all support to combat drug misuse so that West Virginia can fight this epidemic and heal our communities, said Senator Manchin. Last fall, Americans turned in nearly 883,000 pounds of prescription drugs at nearly 6,300 sites operated by the DEA and almost 5,000 of its state and local law enforcement partners. DEA, along with its law enforcement partners, has now collected nearly 6,350 tons of expired, unused, and unwanted prescription medications since the inception of the National Prescription Drug Take Back Initiative in 2010. To keep everyone safe, collection sites will follow local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations. For more information and to find a certified drop-off locationclick here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-296-million-for-rural-development-projects-in-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce $29.6 Million For Rural Development Projects In West Virginia",2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 23, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $29.6 Million For Rural Development Projects In West Virginia Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $29,673,919 in loans and grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for rural development projects across West Virginia. Expanding economic development is essential to growing our economy and our workforce. These funds will help organizations across West Virginia grow and thrive as they work on projects to grow local food and produce, expand telemedicine, provide clean drinking water, put a roof over families heads, and much more. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for USDA rural development funding that supports programs here in the Mountain State, and I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of these projects for years to come, said Senator Manchin. USDA continues to be a fantastic partner in West Virginia, and this latest round of investments is clear evidence of that, said Senator Capito. West Virginians work hardwe are incredibly diligent and we take advantage of opportunities like these to better our communities. Many of the projects included in this round of funding will provide those opportunities and improve the quality of life in communities across the Mountain State. I will continue to be a fervent advocate on the federal level for the support West Virginians need to get through this pandemic so we can come out stronger on the other side. Individual awards listed below: Grants $936,000 Ravencliff-McGraws-Saulsville PSD $430,124 Garrett Regional Medical Center $250,000 Smoke Camp Crafts $50,000 Advantage Valley $50,000 West Virginia High Tech Consortium $49,808 Future Generations University $46,287 Fayette County Commission $17,600 Roane County Commission $13,600 Gilmer County Commission $4,900 City of Stonewood Loans $11,160,000 Potomac Heights $4,900,000 Audrina Mill $3,600,000 Long Island Properties $3,200,000 Ashland Scenic Campground $1,250,000 Muirwood Greene Limited Partnership $1,032,000 Thurston Landing $950,000 Glade View Apartments $800,000 Baltimore Gardens $750,000 Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Planning and Development Council $183,000 Arnoldsburg Volunteer Fire Department Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/report-highlights-need-for-manchin-bill-to-help-homeless-children-and-youth,Report Highlights Need For Manchin Bill To Help Homeless Children And Youth,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 23, 2020 Report Highlights Need For Manchin Bill To Help Homeless Children And Youth Washington, DC Last week, Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago released a report which further highlights the need for U.S. Senator Joe Manchin's (D-WV) bipartisan legislation, the Emergency Family Stabilization Act. Every child deserves a roof over their head and a safe place to sleep and it is unbelievable that in the 21st century that isn't a reality. The recent report from Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago found the lack of resources in rural areas of America like West Virginia create additional burdens for children and youth experiencing homelessness. That's exactly why the bipartisan Emergency Family Stabilization Act is needed to bring resources to our families in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this commonsense legislation to help our children and youth across America who need help right now, said Senator Manchin. This quantitative study found that while youth homelessness rates are similar in urban and rural areas, rural areas tend to far worse because they lack general awareness and the resources to provide assistance to youth experiencing homelessness. The report calls for community-driven collaborative approaches to addressing youth homelessness because most rural areas have insufficient resources to support youth experiencing homelessness. Overview of Report Findings: The current methods for identifying and counting youth experiencing homelessness are inadequate and need to be updated. Rural schools need more capacity devoted to identifying and servicing youth experiencing homelessness. Flexible funding is needed in every community especially rural communities to better address youth homelessness. Community-driven collaborative approaches are more effective in addressing youth homelessness as opposed to individual agencies. Senator Manchin also led a bicameral letter on child poverty rates in rural America, which directly affects our children and youth experiencing homelessness. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-82-million-for-opioid-addiction-relief-across-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce $8.2 Million For Opioid Addiction Relief Across West Virginia",2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 22, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $8.2 Million For Opioid Addiction Relief Across West Virginia Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $8,263,790 from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat opioid addiction and substance abuse in West Virginia. Specifically, this funding will be used to expand the West Virginia Prevention Resource Officer (PRO) program, extend the training and service of drug court operations for veterans and juveniles, and implement several residential or jail-based substance abuse treatment programs. The drug epidemic continues to harm our families and communities, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only made matters worse. This funding from the DOJ will help organizations across West Virginia help those in need and address substance use disorder with help instead of judgement, especially for our youth affected by this terrible crisis. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for funding that helps us combat this epidemic in West Virginia and across the country,said Senator Manchin. In one way or another, we have all felt the impact and destruction resulting from the drug epidemic,said Senator Capito.We must take action to not only limit the ability for opioids to enter our state, but also to provide comprehensive services that help our fellow West Virginians recover from the grip of addition. As I have seen personally,drug courtscan play a crucial role in this process.Therefore, it is important that we make sure that our drug courts and other programs designed for those impacted by substance use disorder are operating properly, that our state personnel are well trained, and that these programs are able to expand to additional areas. Expanding services and making them available to those battling addiction has been a major priority of mine since coming to Congress and something I will continue to advocate for as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Individual awards listed below: FY 20 Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program (COSSAP):West Virginia Division of Justice and Community Services $6,000,000 This funding will expand the West Virginia Prevention Resource Officer (PRO) Program to the following 18 counties: Boone, Gilmer, Grant, Marion, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Pendleton, Pleasants, Pocahontas, Preston, Randolph, Summers, Tucker, Tyler, Wayne, Webster and Wirt. FY 20 Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program:West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals $749,953 This funding will be used to improve, enhance, or expand drug court and veterans' treatment court services statewide. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) FY 2020 Opioid Affected Youth Initiative:United Way of The River Cities, Inc. $690,553 This funding will be used to make a collaborative, local strategy to provide services to youth and families suffering from traumatic stress due to the devastating effects of the opioid epidemic. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) FY 2020 Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program:West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals $600,000 This funding will be used to provide training to West Virginia's Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program (JDTC) practitioners to enable them to better meet the needs of the juveniles and families they serve. FY 20 Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) for State Prisoners Program:West Virginia Department Of Military Affairs And Public Safety, Justice And Community Services $223,284 This funding will be used for either residential substance abuse treatment programs or jail-based substance abuse treatment programs in West Virginia correctional facilities. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-applauds-new-clean-air-water-achievements-in-west-virginia,"Manchin Applauds New Clean Air, Water Achievements In West Virginia",2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 21, 2020 Manchin Applauds New Clean Air, Water Achievements In West Virginia Washington, DC Today, following announcements by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), Ranking Member of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, applauded new achievements on clean air and clean water in West Virginia. The EPA announced West Virginia has met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for the first time since 1978. Additionally, the EPA announced $24.7 million in funding towards West Virginia's Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) to assist in water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades across the state. The CWSRF is an important, flexible financing program that provides communities across the state of West Virginia with a permanent, independent source of low-cost financing for water quality infrastructure projects and upgrades to water systems. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Manchin has prioritized funding for clean drinking water and helped secure $1.689 billion for the overall CWSRF program for FY20. Every West Virginian and every American wants and deserves to breathe clean air and drink clean water, and today's announcements by the EPA show that when we are given the right tools and our workers are put front and center in tackling pollution, we can achieve excellent results, said Senator Manchin. The equipment used to reduce SOx, NOx and particulates at power plants and other sources over the past thirty years have relied on smart business investments, the advice of public health officials, science-based innovation and technology development and the talents and hard work of people throughout the electric, water and other vital sectors of our state's economy. The EPA also announced a $24.7 million investment into our infrastructure to help communities in need through West Virginia's CWSRF, bringing clean water to West Virginians across the state. Today's achievements show us what can be done and that we can show other states how to use all of our natural resources wisely, protect our clean air and water, and invest in high quality jobs for our workers. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-purdue-settlement-should-be-used-to-help-communities-affected-by-opioid-epidemic,Manchin: Purdue Settlement Should Be Used To Help Communities Affected By Opioid Epidemic,2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 21, 2020 Manchin: Purdue Settlement Should Be Used To Help Communities Affected By Opioid Epidemic Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on Purdue Pharma pleading guilty in a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Purdue Pharma has agreed to pay $8 billion for their involvement in the opioid epidemic. The opioid epidemic has ravaged West Virginia and much of America, claiming innocent lives and hurting our friends, family and neighbors. Purdue Pharma produced and sold opioids knowing they were highly addictive and harmful without caring about the consequences. They lied to the American people for a profit. There is no amount of money that can bring back the West Virginians whose lives were lost because of Purdue Pharma, said Senator Manchin. However, we can ensure that the settlement is used to address the opioid epidemic in West Virginia and other states hit hard by this crisis. Purdue should be required to pay their settlements in full, and there should not be one dollar going to bonuses for their executives. These settlements will never heal the hearts of those who lost loved ones, but we can do everything possible to help those impacted by this terrible epidemic. In September, Senator Manchin led five Senators in urging Judge Robert D. Drain to reject Purdue Pharma's proposal to pay President and CEO Craig Landau a bonus of up to $3.5 million. Attorneys General from 24 states have argued that Landau should not collect a bonus.According to Purdue's own filings, the incentive payment plan is similar to the plan the company used during its illegal and deceptive opioid marketing campaign that accelerated an epidemic that has claimed an estimated 400,000 lives and generated $35 billion in revenue for Purdue. Senator Manchin also led eleven Senators last December in sending a letter to Purdue Pharma asking them to cancel the reported bonuses. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-calls-for-west-virginia-strong-nominations,Manchin Calls For West Virginia Strong Nominations,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 20, 2020 Manchin Calls For West Virginia Strong Nominations Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) called for West Virginians to nominate their friends, family, neighbors, or co-workers for being West Virginia Strong during the COVID-19 pandemic. Every West Virginian knows how tough we are and that when we work together, we can get through difficult times. Our state has seen our fair share of hardships and challenges, but we always get through it together. As President Abraham Lincoln said, We all have better angels in us.' This is a time to let that angel fly. I'm calling on West Virginians to share stories of someone helping their neighbor, the selfless efforts of our first responders, our tireless teachers, and all of our community members who help each other through these times. Share these stories with me at WVSTRONG@manchin.senate.gov to help us all remember that we'll get through this together and that we are West Virginia Strong, said Senator Manchin. Share your stories or recommend someone to be recognized for being WV Strong by emailingWVSTRONG@manchin.senate.gov. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-mcconnells-partisan-ppp-bill-doesnt-address-needs-of-west-virginians,Manchin: McConnell's Partisan PPP Bill Doesn't Address Needs Of West Virginians,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 20, 2020 Manchin: McConnell's Partisan PPP Bill Doesn't Address Needs Of West Virginians Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) voted against Mitch McConnell's partisan Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) bill because it does not address the needs of West Virginia small businesses that desperately need help right now. West Virginians know I am always trying to work with my Republican colleagues to find compromises that solve the issues facing us. Since we have not been able to come to an agreement on a larger COVID relief package, I am not opposed to a piecemeal approach like voting on a standalone PPP bill. This is the first COVID relief bill we have voted on in over a month and it should have been bipartisan and all-inclusive to help everyone that's struggling. But once again, Mitch McConnell has refused to engage in bipartisan discussions and his partisan PPP proposal is a fraction of what is necessary to stop the bleeding for West Virginia small businesses. It doesn't provide our rural hospitals, nonprofits, local newspapers and broadcasters, live music venues and restaurants with the help they desperately need to stay afloat. But in order to do that we must reach across the aisle and put partisanship aside. In the meantime, Mitch McConnell's political games are costing West Virginia small business owners and employees their livelihoods so he can score cheap political points, said Senator Manchin. West Virginia small businesses who are left out of Mitch McConnell's partisan PPP proposal Critical Access Hospitals While important changes were made in May to allow community-owned hospitals to participate in PPP, this bill does not address the issue still facing small hospitals in rural areas that are affiliated with a larger network like West Virginia University. This includes hospitals like St. Joseph's Hospital (Buckhannon), Potomac Valley Hospital (Keyser), and Jefferson Medical Center (Ranson). Nonprofits While the bill will help some 501(c)(6) organizations with under 150 employees, many small and medium sized 501(c)(6) organizations would still be excluded. The National Council for Nonprofits estimates that at least 2,000 nonprofits would be left out of the McConnell PPP proposal. This includes, most state and metro chambers of commerce and well know organizations like the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association, Habitat for Humanity, YMCA, March of Dimes, Ducks Unlimited, and many more. Local Newspapers and Broadcasters The bill does not include expanded eligibility to allow local newspapers and broadcasters to access PPP loans. Under current law, only a small fraction are eligible to participate in PPP. This includes West Virginia news outlets like WTOV (Wheeling), WCHS (Charleston-Huntington), WVAH (Charleston-Huntington), WOWK (Charleston/Huntington), WTRF (Wheeling), WVNS (Ghent), WBOY (Clarksburg), West Virginia Radio Corporation with 63 affiliates covering all 55 West Virginia counties, WWVA Radio (Wheeling), The Inter-Mountain (Elkins), The Journal (Martinsburg), The Parkersburg News and Sentinel (Parkersburg), Weirton Daily Times (Weirton), Wheeling Intelligencer (Wheeling), The Shepherdstown Chronicle (Shepherdstown), The Wetzel Chronicle (New Martinsville) and The Tyler Star News (Sistersville). Restaurants While restaurants remain eligible for PPP loans, McConnell's PPP proposal does not include tailored assistance to address the specific challenges such as access to working capital - facing the restaurant industry right now. 75% of West Virginia's roughly 3,300 restaurants and bars are at risk of closure without tailored assistance. Live Music Venues and Theaters Similar to restaurants, live music venues and theaters are generally eligible to participate in PPP, but they need immediate access to working capital more than funding for payroll expenses. This includes West Virginia venues like Smoot Theater (Parkersburg), Historic Fayette Theatre (Fayetteville), Keith Albee (Huntington), Rose G. Smith PAC (Williamson), V Club (Huntington), 123 Pleasant St (Morgantown), Landes Performing Arts Center (Petersburg), Raleigh Theater (Beckley), Chuck Mathena Center (Princeton), Strand Theater (Moundsville), Alban Theater (St. Albans), The Capitol Theatre (Wheeling), Carnegie Hall (Lewisburg), Clay Center for the Arts (Charleston), Logan Theatre (Logan), Metropolitan Theatre (Morgantown), Pocahontas County Opera House (Marlinton), Robinson Grand Performing Arts Center (Clarksburg) and Shiley Acres Concert Stage (Inwood). Small Borrowers Many West Virginia mom and pop shops who received small PPP loans do not have the resources to navigate the lengthy, bureaucratic forgiveness process. This bill does not do enough to simplify that process.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-announces-service-academy-board,Manchin Announces Service Academy Board,2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 19, 2020 Manchin Announces Service Academy Board Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) announced the names of his service academy board.The ten member panel will interview prospective candidates who are vying for a nomination to the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and the U.S. Air Force Academy.Virtual Resource Fairs and Interviews will be held from October 19, 2020 to October 23, 2020. It is an honor to nominate our hardworking and dedicated West Virginia Students to the U.S. Service Academies each year, Senator Manchin said.Every member of the panel brings something to the table and I look forward to reviewing the results of the interviews when I make my nominations. Mara Boggs Combat Veteran and State Director, Office of the U.S. Senator Joe Manchin III Aaron Scheinberg Combat Veteran and Legislative Assistant for Veteran Affairs, Office of the U.S. Senator Joe Manchin III Robert Moser Combat Veteran and Defense Fellow, Office of the U.S. Senator Joe Manchin III Ms. Erika Bailey Parent Representative for United States Naval Academy Mr. Jeremy Harrison Combat Veteran and Director of Helping Heroes in Ohio County Mr. Jerry Wood Combat Veteran and Director, Center for Veteran, Military & Family Program at West Virginia University CSM Kevin Harry, Retired Combat Veteran CMSgt LaTash Luzum Superintendent of Operations and Special Duty Airmen Career Management Division CSM Phillip Cantrell Combat Veteran and WV National Guard Senior Enlisted Leader Colonel Quewancoii Que Stephens Combat Veteran and Community Resource Supervisor for the Division of Juvenile Services for the State of West Virginia Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-calls-on-administration-to-release-funds-to-heat-west-virginia-homes,Manchin Calls On Administration To Release Funds To Heat West Virginia Homes,2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 19, 2020 Manchin Calls On Administration To Release Funds To Heat West Virginia Homes Charleston, WV U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) led 40 bipartisan Senators in calling on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly and at the highest level possible under the current continuing resolution. The Senators said the federal LIHEAP funding is a crucial lifeline that assists low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes pay their energy bills and stay safe during the winter. HHS typically releases 90 percent of funds when a continuing resolution is enacted. The Senators said in part, As the main federal program that helps low-income households and seniors with their energy bills, LIHEAP provides critical assistance during the cold winter and hot summer months. October marks the start of the heating season for many states and low-income families and seniors will be facing additional strains on their household budgets. In addition, millions of low-income families, including seniors, are facing new and severe financial hardship due to the coronavirus, making the assistance provided through LIHEAP more important than ever. The average cost of home heating is unaffordable for millions of low-income households, costing an average of $911 per year nationally.The timely release of these funds will provide critical assistance to families unemployed as a result of the pandemic pay their energy bills.According to the National Energy Assistance Directors' Association, 15 to 20 percent of residential customers are at least 60 days behind on their electric and natural gas bills.As of July 31, 2020, the estimated resulting electric arrearages are between $8 billion and $9.9 billion and natural gas arrearages are between $975 million and $1.3 billion. Read the full letter below or click here. Dear Secretary Azar: With passage of the continuing resolution, we write to urge the Department of Health and Human Services to release Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds as quickly and at the highest level possible. As the main federal program that helps low-income households and seniors with their energy bills, LIHEAP provides critical assistance during the cold winter and hot summer months. October marks the start of the heating season for many states and low-income families and seniors will be facing additional strains on their household budgets. In addition, millions of low-income families, including seniors, are facing new and severe financial hardship due to the coronavirus, making the assistance provided through LIHEAP more important than ever. As state agencies work to prepare their LIHEAP programs for the coming winter, it is crucial that they have the resources they need to assist low-income households and seniors as soon as possible, especially in light of the current health crisis. As such, we request that you quickly release LIHEAP funds at the highest level possible to allow states to prepare for the upcoming season, so that low-income households do not have to choose between paying for heat and affording other necessities like food or medicine. We look forward to continuing to work with you on this critical program, and thank you for your attention to our concerns and those of our constituents. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-19-million-to-improve-forensic-science-sexual-assault-dna-testing,"Manchin, Capito Announce $1.9 Million To Improve Forensic Science, Sexual Assault DNA Testing",2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 19, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $1.9 Million To Improve Forensic Science, Sexual Assault DNA Testing Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $1,955,182 from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to the state of West Virginia. This funding will provide support for improved forensic science services, deliver jurisdictions with resources to improve efficiency of sexual assault kits and DNA testing, and help process the backlog of forensic and database DNA samples. West Virginia's forensic programs and research projects are some of the best in the nation. That's why I'm pleased the federal government is continuing to invest in our state through these awards, helping West Virginia remain at the forefront of innovation in forensic science for years to come. Forensic programs like these will help keep our fellow West Virginians safe and provide peace of mind to victims of sexual assault. I look forward to seeing the advancement of these programs and will continue to fight for funding that supports our higher education programs and our local governments, said Senator Manchin. Improving the accessibility and capability of our forensic science services in West Virginia helps our law enforcement communities be more efficient, keeps our residents safer, and brings closure to victims of sexual assault,said Senator Capito. As we make these improvements, we must make sure that these resources are made available across our state, especially in our more rural communities. I am thankful that DOJ is making investments in West Virginia to move our forensic science capabilities forward, improve the efficiency of our DNA testing, and bring critical services to survivors of sexual assault. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for grant funding like this back home. Individual awards listed below: FY20 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program: West Virginia State Police $494,564 FY20 Research and Development in Forensic Science for Criminal Justice Purposes: West Virginia University Research Corporation $476,517 FY20 Research and Development in Forensic Science for Criminal Justice Purposes: West Virginia University Research Corporation $466,543 FY20 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program (FORMULA): West Virginia Division Of Justice And Community Services $264,698 FY20 National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI): West Virginia Division Of Justice And Community Services $252,860 Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-covid-19-testing-funding-for-west-virginia-nursing-homes,"Manchin, Capito Announce COVID-19 Testing Funding For West Virginia Nursing Homes",2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 19, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce COVID-19 Testing Funding For West Virginia Nursing Homes Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $1,220,550 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health. This funding provides the required 75 percent cost share for COVID-19 tests given to West Virginia nursing home staff and residents from April through July of this year, mandated by an executive order signed by West Virginia Governor Jim Justice on April 17, 2020. During that time, the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health provided 16,274 targeted medical tests on vulnerable populations and associated medical staff in 123 facilities across the state of West Virginia. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit our communities hard, especially our loved ones in nursing homes across West Virginia. The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources has worked to test residents and staff in nursing homes in order to curb the spread of COVID-19. I am pleased FEMA is supporting these efforts and as we continue to address this pandemic, I will fight for funding that supports West Virginians during these difficult times, said Senator Manchin. It's no secret that our elderly population is more vulnerable to the coronavirus, making it even more important that resources are provided to properly test our nursing home staff and residents,said Senator Capito. Governor Justice and the West Virginia National Guard have been quick to address the areas that need reliefincluding the nursing homesand this grant funding will help further support these efforts. Now more than ever, we must follow social distancing guidelines and wear our masks to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. West Virginians have been brave in the face of this pandemic and taken steps to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their communities. I will continue to advocate on behalf of West Virginians and fight for the resources our people need during this unprecedented time. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-praises-usda-broadband-investment-in-barbour-doddridge-randolph-counties,"Manchin Praises USDA Broadband Investment In Barbour, Doddridge, Randolph Counties",2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 19, 2020 Manchin Praises USDA Broadband Investment In Barbour, Doddridge, Randolph Counties Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) praised the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) $7,623,751 investment to build out broadband access in Barbour, Doddridge, and Randolph counties. Expanding broadband access is essential in order for West Virginia to compete in the 21st century. Our economy, workforce, healthcare and education systems all rely on increasing Internet access across the state for everyone, no matter where they live. I am pleased the USDA is investing in the Mountain State to help West Virginians in Barbour, Doddridge, and Randolph counties have access to broadband and look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of this investment in the years to come as the project is completed, said Senator Manchin. West Virginians need reliable broadband access to complete their homework, attend telehealth appointments, apply for jobs, support their small businesses, and so much more. It's vital we expand broadband access across the state and I won't stop fighting to ensure West Virginia has a fair shot at federal funding to help bring broadband to all West Virginians. To view a timeline of Senator Manchin's efforts to expand broadband access, please click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-manchin-urging-dozens-of-west-virginia-rural-health-providers-will-soon-be-eligible-for-funding,"After Manchin Urging, Dozens Of West Virginia Rural Health Providers Will Soon Be Eligible For Funding",2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 16, 2020 After Manchin Urging, Dozens Of West Virginia Rural Health Providers Will Soon Be Eligible For Funding Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) submitted comments to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) on the proposed changes to their rural classification methodology, which determines a large percentage of grants and awards for rural health providers in West Virginia. This revision includes changes for Boone, Clay, Hampshire, Lincoln, Preston and Wirt counties from urban to rural. Senator Manchin also urged HRSA to include Fayette County in this revision. Senator Manchin said in part, I appreciate the opportunity to comment on the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) proposed Revised Geographic Eligibility for Federal Office of Rural Health Policy Grants. HRSA's Federal Office of Rural Health Policy (FORHP) establishes methods of defining rural areas in the United States to receive services funded by its rural health grant program. These funds are instrumental to providing access to quality health care and health professionals in rural communities across the country. I appreciate HRSA addressing concerns expressed by stakeholders to ensure that rural is properly defined across the United States, especially in West Virginia. Senator Manchin successfully included language in Fiscal Year 2020 Appropriations, directing the Economic Research Services and FORHP to work on developing an update to their rural classification methodology. On September 23rd, HRSA released a proposed rule updating their methodology for determining what is rural. The methodology is based on economic and geographic measures known as the Rural-Urban Commuting Areas (RUCA) Codes. Under the current classification, 20 counties in West Virginia are labeled urban including counties like Preston and Boone, making health providers in these counties ineligible for rural grants and assistance. The Federal Office of Rural Health Policy is the agency in charge of promoting health services in rural America. It issues millions of dollars in grant funding to critical programs including black lung/coal miner clinics programs, rural opioid response programs, rural HIV/AIDS planning programs, rural telehealth programs, State Offices of Rural Health, hospital flex grants, and many more. To view a map of current West Virginia county classifications, please click here. The Senator continued, West Virginia is the only state that lies completely within the Appalachian Mountain region. It also has a higher mean elevation than any state in the east. According to the Census Bureau, West Virginia is the third most rural state in the nation with 51.8% of the state's population living in rural areas. West Virginia has 52 Rural Health Clinics, 28 Federally Qualified Health Centers and 3 Look-Alike Organizations (including 390 satellite sites, 179 of which are School-Based Health Centers), and 6 free clinics. Additionally, there are 59 licensed hospitals in West Virginia, including 21 Critical Access Hospitals. However, several of West Virginia's Critical Access Hospitals, Rural Health Clinics, and other rural providers lie in counties HRSA has designated as urban. I find this concerning, as these critical providers have been ineligible for necessary FORHP grant opportunities. Read the full letter below or click here. Dear Administrator Engels: I appreciate the opportunity to comment on the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) proposed Revised Geographic Eligibility for Federal Office of Rural Health Policy Grants. HRSA's Federal Office of Rural Health Policy (FORHP) establishes methods of defining rural areas in the United States to receive services funded by its rural health grant program. These funds are instrumental to providing access to quality health care and health professionals in rural communities across the country. I appreciate HRSA addressing concerns expressed by stakeholders to ensure that rural is properly defined across the United States, especially in West Virginia. West Virginia is the only state that lies completely within the Appalachian Mountain region. It also has a higher mean elevation than any state in the east. According to the Census Bureau, West Virginia is the third most rural state in the nation with 51.8% of the state's population living in rural areas. West Virginia has 52 Rural Health Clinics, 28 Federally Qualified Health Centers and 3 Look-Alike Organizations (including 390 satellite sites, 179 of which are School-Based Health Centers), and 6 free clinics. Additionally, there are 59 licensed hospitals in West Virginia, including 21 Critical Access Hospitals. However, several of West Virginia's Critical Access Hospitals, Rural Health Clinics, and other rural providers lie in counties HRSA has designated as urban. I find this concerning, as these critical providers have been ineligible for necessary FORHP grant opportunities. Specific Comments Inclusion of Outlying MSAs with No Urban Areas The proposed change to the rural methodology would list outlying Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) counties with no Urban Area (UA) populations to the list of eligible areas. This change would affect six counties in West Virginia including: Boone, Clay, Hampshire, Lincoln, Preston and Wirt. I am extremely supportive of this change. By including these six counties as rural, health providers will be able to apply and compete for FORHP grants. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly half of all rural hospitals were operating at a loss and rural closure rates were escalating dramatically. Today, these already financially fragile hospitals face catastrophic cash shortages. Many have furloughed staff, instituted massive cuts, or are shuttering their doors. Any and all resources available to these facilities will not only help stabilize their financial infrastructure but allow them to expand to better serve their patients. This is a long overdue change for these six counties and I appreciate the recognition that proximity to a metro area does not mean a county is not rural. In fact, West Virginia is uniquely located between several large MSAs, but only has roughly 1.8 million residents. Our population density is only roughly 44 people per square mile, and our largest city is less than 50,000 people. Providing Exception for Mountainous/Difficult Terrain While I appreciate the update to include counties in MSAs with no UAs, I believe that FORHP is still missing the mark when it comes to measuring rurality in West Virginia. Currently the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) has developed Rural-Urban Commuting Area (RUCA) codes to define labor commuting of rural populations and the Frontier and Remote Area Codes to measure sparsely settled and remote areas, however an adequate measure for sparsely populated mountain regions, and commuting times for difficult terrain are not adequately measured. Compounding this issue, we have a deficiency of high-speed internet access due to the terrain, making delivery of health care through other means, such as telehealth, even more difficult. While many sites are trying to adopt telehealth services, the mountainous region often makes technology infrastructure inaccessible and unreliable. In particular, Fayette County in West Virginia should be included as rural for purposes of FORHP grant eligibility. Fayette County is home to just over 42,000 residents, the New River, New River Gorge Bridge, and hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails. Fayette County sees over a million visitors each year to explore its scenic landscape. Its largest city is Oak Hill, which only has about 8,000 residents, well under the definition of Micropolitan area. Fayette County is served by two Critical Access Hospitals - Plateau Medical Center and Montgomery General Hospital - New River Health centers, including school-based health centers, and several other health providers. The unique landscape of West Virginia, and in particular Fayette County, reflects the need for additional exceptions for mountainous or difficult terrain. In areas like Fayette County, the density per square mile is higher than you would find in a larger geographic landscape, where travel by road is on primary roads over flat terrain. Travel through the secondary roads and mountainous terrain of West Virginia makes access to health care more difficult, and requires health providers be more closely located to ensure patients are served in a timely manner, especially for emergent health concerns. Currently FORHP provides exceptions to census tracts with a RUCA codes of 2 or 3 that are 400 square miles in area with a population density of no more than 35 people per square mile. FORHP should consider including an exception aimed at the Appalachian region, which is a highly mountainous and rural region. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recognized the need to provide a shorter distance requirement for rural areas in mountainous terrain with a lack of primary roads, and requires critical access hospitals to only have 15 miles to the next nearest like facility, instead of the required 35 miles. Fayette County is not included in this recent change due to UAs from Charleston and Beckley reaching into part of the county. However, these UAs only take into account density per square mile, and not the terrain where you may find a higher density, but longer commuting times. The topography of Fayette County and its largest city only having 8,000 residents, support Fayette County being included as rural for purposes of FORHP grants. Hub Sites That Serve Majority Rural Population (We/I) would also like to encourage FORHP to consider expanding eligibility to health centers that primarily serve rural populations but may be connected to a hub site located in an MSA UA. Several health centers located in rural counties in West Virginia, have a hub site registered inside a nearby county that FORHP considers urban. Several of these satellite sites serve a majority rural population and provide critical health services. For purposes of applying for grants, FORHP requires centers apply through their primary location, which is often their hub site, and not the location where services are rendered. FORHP should review this criterion and consider allowing health centers with service sites that serve a majority rural population be eligible to apply for grants based on the location of the service being rendered. Thank you again for the opportunity to comment on this notice. If you have any questions regarding our comments, please contact my office at 202-224-3954.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-submits-over-2000-speed-tests-to-fcc-chairman-pai,"Manchin Submits Over 2,000 Speed Tests To FCC Chairman Pai",2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 16, 2020 Manchin Submits Over 2,000 Speed Tests To FCC Chairman Pai Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) announced he has submitted over 2,000 broadband speed tests to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proving the FCC's broadband coverage maps are wrong and must be fixed before the $20 billion Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) is distributed incorrectly. In June, Senator Manchin challenged West Virginians to submit 2,000 speed tests to the FCC by the end of the year. With more than two months left in 2020, West Virginians have met and exceeded the goal I set earlier this year to submit 2,000 speed tests to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai. I am impressed by their dedication and persistence in proving the FCC's maps wrong and it is a testament to their efforts to improve broadband coverage for their families, friends, and neighbors in West Virginia. Last week, Chairman Pai agreed to update the maps before the $9 billion 5G Fund for Rural America is distributed, but that's only one piece of the pie. The FCC is planning to finalize $16 billion in RDOF funding at the end of this month using their incorrect maps, shutting much of West Virginia out of the competition for this funding. It's just plain wrong, and over 2,000 West Virginians have proven it. I won't stop submitting West Virginians' tests until the FCC agrees to use the updated maps to distribute RDOF and commits to creating a user-friendly public feedback system just like they are required to do under law. This fight is far from over, and I need West Virginians to please help me fight for better broadband for the Mountain State by submitting a speed test at https://www.manchin.senate.gov/speedtest. To view a timeline of Senator Manchin's efforts to expand broadband access, please click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-25-million-to-prevent-violence-in-schools-crimes-against-children-in-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce $2.5 Million To Prevent Violence In Schools, Crimes Against Children In West Virginia",2020-10-15,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 15, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $2.5 Million To Prevent Violence In Schools, Crimes Against Children In West Virginia Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $2,569,574 from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to reduce violent crime in and around schools and support the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children (WV ICAC) Task Force. This funding was made available through the DOJ's Student, Teachers, and Officers Preventing (STOP) School Violence Program and Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP). Our children should be able to receive a quality education, whether physically in the classroom or learning remotely, without the fear of violence. This funding will provide our law enforcement and the WV ICAC Task Force with the support they need to keep our students safe in person and on the Internet. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for funding that helps our students learn safely, no matter where they are,said Senator Manchin. Protecting our children is of the upmost priority, whether that be in school, or while they are online, said Senator Capito. It is important that we give our law enforcement agencies the tools they need to provide service to our communities, support the necessary task forces, and keep our children and families safe and secure. Additionally, this funding will support and train our school staff and faculty West Virginia, helping them combat challenges that arise in the classroom. It is great to see our state partner with the DOJ in order to protect our wonderful children in the Mountain State. Individual awards listed below: OJJDP FY20 Internet Crimes Against Children Task Forces: West Virginia State Police $1,399,101 Bureau of Justice Assistance's (BJA) STOP School Violence Program: Mountain State Educational Services Cooperative $730,473 Bureau of Justice Assistance's (BJA) STOP School Violence Program: Westbrook Health Services, Inc. $500,000 Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-28-million-for-west-virginia-flood-recovery,"Manchin, Capito Announce $2.8 Million For West Virginia Flood Recovery",2020-10-14,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 14, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $2.8 Million For West Virginia Flood Recovery Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $2,803,771 from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Highway Administration (FHA) for flood recovery projects in the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Monongahela National Forest. Our state has been hit hard by floods in recent years and has damaged our national and state public lands. This funding will help the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Monongahela National Forest repair the damage sustained from these floods so our wonderful parks and public lands can be enjoyed by West Virginians and our visitors. I will continue to fight for funding that helps our state recover and repair from the flooding that has impacted our state, said Senator Manchin. The mountainous terrain and rugged landscape of West Virginia allow for rainwater to channel and accumulate quickly, causing flash floods that can lead to severe damage to our land and infrastructure. Effects of these floods are especially felt in our national forests and wildlife refuges, where less flood prevention infrastructure is established. This funding from the DOT will be used to make critical improvements to our roads in these areas, making sure that access is safely maintained for residents of surrounding communities and for visitors to our beautiful forests. I am thankful for DOT's support in improving infrastructure across our state and will continue to advocate for better roads in West Virginia, said Senator Capito. Individual awards listed below: $2,262,888 U.S. Forest Service - Monongahela National Forest $356,655 U.S. Forest Service - Monongahela National Forest $184,228 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-58-million-for-arc-power-grants-for-west-virginia-projects,"Manchin, Capito Announce $5.8 Million For ARC POWER Grants For West Virginia Projects",2020-10-14,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 14, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $5.8 Million For ARC POWER Grants For West Virginia Projects Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced seven project awards totaling $5,844,534 from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) program. The POWER Program is a congressionally funded initiative that targets federal resources to help communities and regions that have been affected by job losses in coal mining, coal power plant operations, and coal-related supply chain industries due to the changing economics of America's energy production. I have always said that West Virginians are the most hardworking people, they just need a chance to prove it. ARC has given our state that chance, with over $52 million in investments from the POWER grant program since 2015. These awards will support projects to expand broadband access, implement substance use disorder peer recovery programs, and support economic development across the state. This year's POWER awards are yet another example of the strong partnership between West Virginia and ARC, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact of these projects for years to come, said Senator Manchin. As we make unprecedented strides in connecting our state and diversifying our economy, continued support from ARC helps move our state forward even faster. These POWER awards are a positive step toward economic recovery in West Virginia. The people of our state are defined by their character, their dedication to hard work, and their ability to get the task done. I am thrilled to see so many different opportunities being provided to deserving people across the Mountain State and look forward to working with ARC to support more projects in the future, said Senator Capito. ""POWER grants are playing a critical role in supporting coal-impacted communities in the Appalachian Region as they recover from COVID-19 by building and expanding critical infrastructure and creating new economic opportunities through innovative and transformative approaches,"" said ARC Federal Co-Chairman Tim Thomas. ""Projects like this are getting Appalachia back to work. The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) was established in 1965 and is a regional economic development agency that represents a partnership of federal, state, and local government. The reach of the Appalachian Regional Commission across 13 States and 420 counties, West Virginia remains the only state fully within the jurisdiction of the Appalachian Regional Commission. Since 2015, West Virginia has received nearly $96 million from ARC. This funding is largely broken down into two buckets: an annual allocation that goes to the state, which then determines awardees, and annual POWER grants (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization), discretionary grants that are awarded on competitive basis from ARC. Since the start of 2015, West Virginia has received $43.735 million in allocated funding. West Virginia has also been awarded more than $52.2 million in POWER Grants since the start of 2016, when the program began. Individual awards listed below: $2,353,788 Thundercloud for a 25-mile fiber loop that will connect Barboursville to downtown Huntington $1,499,894 Region 4Planning and Development Council for a recovery-to-work program focused on social entrepreneurship in the food sector $1,360,852 Region IIPlanning and Development Council for a tri-state aviation maintenance technician program, working with Marshall and Mountwest Community College $480,000 Southern Highlands Community Mental Health Center to implement a peer navigator/recovery coach model for working with persons with substance use disorder $50,000 Appalachian Forest Heritage Area to develop a business plan for a volunteer trail maintenance center and program $50,000 Wheeling National Heritage Area to conduct a feasibility study to transform four sites along Main Street into a Heritage Gateway for the downtown core $50,000 New River Gorge Regional Development Authority for a strategic plan to support the aerospace industry Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/following-manchins-urging-usda-grants-extension-of-child-nutrition-programs-through-school-year,"Following Manchin's Urging, USDA Grants Extension Of Child Nutrition Programs Through School Year",2020-10-13,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 13, 2020 Following Manchin's Urging, USDA Grants Extension Of Child Nutrition Programs Through School Year Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) applauded U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue's decision to extend child nutrition program waivers through the end of the school year. I commend Secretary Perdue for agreeing to extend these child nutrition program waivers through the end of the school year. It will bring peace of mind to West Virginia students, families, and schools, and I am proud to have helped ensure their voices were heard. Many families and students rely on these programs to help make ends meet, even more so during these uncertain times. The COVID-19 pandemic drastically affected how schools distributed meals to their students and these waivers have been key in allowing our schools to continue serving our students, no matter where they are learning this school year. I am proud that our schools were able to quickly adjust to provide their students with meals and pleased the USDA understands the importance of continuing these waivers through the end of the school year to support these programs, said Senator Manchin. To see a timeline of Senator Manchin's efforts to ensure wavier extensions throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-urges-hhs-to-preserve-healthcare-providers-rural-hospital-access-to-pandemic-relief-funding,"Manchin Urges HHS To Preserve Healthcare Providers, Rural Hospital Access To Pandemic Relief Funding",2020-10-13,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 13, 2020 Manchin Urges HHS To Preserve Healthcare Providers, Rural Hospital Access To Pandemic Relief Funding Charleston, WV U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) led two groups of bipartisan Senators in expressing concern to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar about the recent change in reporting requirements for hospitals and health systems that receive relief funds from the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) and urged the Administration to protect access to this vital funding. Rural hospitals and hospitals that serve high numbers of low-income, elderly, and severely ill patients could be particularly burdened by the new reporting requirements, due to their already thin financial margins. Senator Manchin said in part, In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, our health care providers need more certainty, not less. The CARES Act, enacted in March 2020, established the PRF to reimburse eligible health care providers for health care-related expenses and lost revenues attributable to the coronavirus. Hospitals and other providers received funds and have budgeted accordingly. However, we are still in the midst of a pandemic and providers continue to face uncertainty in terms of loss of revenue from delayed procedures and care as well as increased expenses related to COVID-19. Senator Manchin also stated, We have heard from hospitals and health systems in our states who are concerned that this change in the definition of lost revenue will force them to return funds to HHS that they have received from the PRF. In particular, rural hospitals and those that serve high numbers of low-income, elderly, and severely ill patientswhich already operate on thin financial marginsmay be especially impacted by this change. HHS released initial reporting requirements in June for providers receiving PRF funds that directed these entities to define lost revenue as any revenue that you as a health care provider lost due to coronavirus, but HHS released updated reporting requirements on September 19 that directed providers to instead use changes in their net operating income to calculate lost revenue a substantial change from the initial June guidance that is expected to reduce the amount of lost revenues that providers are able to report. This shift in reporting requirements changes the terms of the relief as hospitals and health systems initially understood them and will likely create further uncertainty for providers at a time when they are already facing serious financial challenges. To view the first letter to Secretary Azar, please click here. To view the second letter to Secretary Azar, please click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-visits-cabell-county-clerk-huntington-corps-of-engineers-speaks-at-garrison-house-groundbreaking,"Manchin Visits Cabell County Clerk, Huntington Corps of Engineers, Speaks At Garrison House Groundbreaking",2020-10-13,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 13, 2020 Manchin Visits Cabell County Clerk, Huntington Corps of Engineers, Speaks At Garrison House Groundbreaking Huntington, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) visited the Cabell County Clerk's Office to highlight election security and encourage West Virginians to vote, met with the Huntington Corps of Engineers to receive an update on projects in Southern West Virginia and the Mid-Ohio Valley, spoke at the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Historic Memphis Tennessee Garrison House, and attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for Rapid Fired Pizza. To view photos, click here. To view Senator Manchin's video encouraging West Virginians to vote, click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-tentative-clarksburg-vamc-settlement,Manchin Statement On Tentative Clarksburg VAMC Settlement,2020-10-10,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 10, 2020 Manchin Statement On Tentative Clarksburg VAMC Settlement Charleston, WV U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on the tentative settlement between the United States government and six of the victim's families. Reta Mays, a former Clarksburg VAMC nurse, pled guilty to murdering seven Veterans in July. Today's tentative settlement is further evidence that the VA and the Clarksburg VAMC were negligent in the murders that happened under their watch. I hope Reta May's recent guilty plea and the settlements announced today bring peace of mind to the victim's families, but money and an admission of guilt can't bring back their innocent loved ones. It has been over two years since we learned about these murders, and no one at the VA or in the Clarksburg VAMC leadership have been held accountable for these terrible actions. The West Virginia Veteran community need answers. I strongly urge VA Inspector General Missal to quickly conclude and publish the Office of Inspector General's report. West Virginians deserve to know what happened, and a detailed report on the VA decisions, policies, and procedures that allowed these murders to happen is the first step. I will continue working with my colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass my bipartisan legislation, the Improving Safety and Security for Veterans Act, to ensure this never happens to another Veteran or their family, said Senator Manchin. A timeline of Senator Manchin's efforts on the Clarksburg VAMC investigation can be foundhere. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-months-of-pressure-from-manchin-charleston-mail-machines-reinstated,"After Months Of Pressure From Manchin, Charleston Mail Machines Reinstated",2020-10-09,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 09, 2020 After Months Of Pressure From Manchin, Charleston Mail Machines Reinstated Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) applauded the reinstatement of three critical mail machines at the U.S. Postal Service Charleston Processing and Distribution Center (P&DC). This comes after months of pressure from Senator Manchin to reinstate the machines. When I first visited the Charleston P&DC, I witnessed firsthand the critical mail machines that were out of service on orders from Postmaster General DeJoy. Since then I've pressed DeJoy to allow the Charleston P&DC to reinstate these machines, and after a judge ruled changes under DeJoy should be reversed, the machines are finally up and running again. This is a step in the right direction to ensuring West Virginians and Americans get their Social Security benefits, medications, and ballots on time and I applaud the Charleston P&DC staff for bringing these machines back online, said Senator Manchin. A timeline of Senator Manchin's efforts to protect the Postal Service can be foundhere. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-38-million-for-west-virginia-airport-improvements,"Manchin, Capito Announce $3.8 Million For West Virginia Airport Improvements",2020-10-09,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 09, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $3.8 Million For West Virginia Airport Improvements Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $3,819,046 from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for airport drainage and runway safety improvements. A portion of these funds are supported through the CARES Act. Our airports are vital to West Virginia's economy, providing access for tourism and industries while spurring economic development. As a pilot myself, I understand the importance of airport and runway upkeep. This funding will help the Marshall County Airport and the Tri-State Airport improve drainage to combat erosion and increase runway safety for those flying to and from the Mountain State. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for funding that helps our airports stay safe, said Senator Manchin. Making sure our airports are updated to the most recent safety standards is a vital step to growing our economy and is important for the convenience of travelers. Over the past several years, investments in our airports have helped support many improvement projects, which have been made possible from support on the federal level. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I made sure the CARES Act included sufficient funding to provide the federal match to enable these improvement projects. This will ensure that West Virginia's airports can continue to operate safely and spur economic growth, said Senator Capito. Individual awards listed below: $2,431,200 Marshall County Airport $1,387,846 Tri-State Airport/Milton J Ferguson Field Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-urges-west-virginia-high-school-students-to-apply-for-2021-senate-youth-program,Manchin Urges West Virginia High School Students To Apply For 2021 Senate Youth Program,2020-10-09,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 09, 2020 Manchin Urges West Virginia High School Students To Apply For 2021 Senate Youth Program Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) urged interested high school juniors and seniors to apply for the U.S. Senate Youth Program Washington Week, which will take place virtually March 14th 18th, 2021. Applications close November 13th, 2020. Interested students can apply at www.ussenateyouth.org. The U.S. Senate Youth Program is an incredible program for bright young Americans and I encourage interested West Virginia high school juniors and seniors to apply before November 13th. While this year's program will be virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the program will continue to provide the students with a unique educational experience as they learn about the inner workings of the U.S. Senate. I look forward to meeting the students chosen to represent the Mountain State for this prestigious program and I wish good luck to all those who apply, said Senator Manchin. The upcoming program will be an immersive online learning experience incorporating the key elements of the traditional program week in an exciting, interactive format. Each delegate will also receive the $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship in the name of the United States Senate, with encouragement to continue coursework in history, government and political science. The mission of this 59-year-old Senate sponsored program is to encourage America's brightest young leaders to pursue careers in public service. Begun in 1962 by Senate Resolution 324, the USSYP provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience for students to learn about the history and procedures of the Senate and meet and interact with the highest-level elected and appointed officials in the federal government. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-applaud-44-million-eda-investment-for-infrastructure-projects-in-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Applaud $4.4 Million EDA Investment For Infrastructure Projects In West Virginia",2020-10-08,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 08, 2020 Manchin, Capito Applaud $4.4 Million EDA Investment For Infrastructure Projects In West Virginia Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today applauded a $4.4 million investment from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for two infrastructure projects in West Virginia. The projects will support a sewer line expansion at Yeager Airport and flood control infrastructure in Beverly. The two projects will create and retain over 600 jobs. I am pleased with the EDA's continued investment in West Virginia through economic development projects across the state, including the two announced today. In 2018, I helped secure funding through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to extend Eagle Mountain Road and expand development opportunities at the airport. The sewer line is the final piece of the puzzle and it's critical for the development of the Marshall University Bill Noe Flight School based at the airport. I explained the importance of this award to the EDA, and I'm pleased to see this is one of the first awards from the new fiscal year, said Senator Manchin. I'm also pleased the EDA is assisting Beverly with project to protect their community and businesses. West Virginia has been battered by floods over the years, destroying homes and communities and taking too many innocent lives from us. Investing in flood control infrastructure provides our communities with the security and safety they deserve. West Virginia's partnership with EDA has consistently helped improve our state's infrastructure, increase transportation, and develop the economies of our localities and communities. I am thrilled to see these two awards coming into areas of West Virginia. As our economy continues to expand, improving the quality of our airport infrastructure is a critical step, and will attract additional aerospace business to the region.Expanding our water infrastructure is an equally important task, and will help sustain a better quality of life and opportunities for business in the Mountain State. I will continue to foster a positive relationship between West Virginia and the EDA so that we continue to receive an appropriate federal share on improvement projects like these,said Senator Capito. Individual awards listed below: $1,200,000 Central West Virginia Regional Airport Authority Yeager Airport $3,200,000 Town of Beverly Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-welcome-virgin-hyperloop-to-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Welcome Virgin Hyperloop To West Virginia",2020-10-08,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 08, 2020 Manchin, Capito Welcome Virgin Hyperloop To West Virginia Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), today applauded Virgin Hyperloop's decision to base their new Hyperloop Certification Center in West Virginia. Nearly a year ago,I wrote to Sir Richard Branson,highlighting the benefits of doing business in West Virginia and urging him to pick the Mountain State for the newest Virgin Hyperloop venture. Today we celebrate the beginning of a new partnership between West Virginia and Virgin Hyperloop that will last for decades to come, said Senator Manchin. Virgin Hyperloop's decision to make West Virginia the home of their Certification Center is a testament to our people and proves that when West Virginia competes, we win. West Virginia continues to grow in the technology, manufacturing, and innovation sectors, and I look forward to witnessing the benefits of this progress as we advance the future of travel right here in our great state of West Virginia. Over the last several years, West Virginia's economy has begun to diversify into new sectors,Senator Capito said. The announcement that Virgin Hyperloop's Certification Center and test track will be located right here in our state will help us continue this growth in the knowledge based economy. I'm glad that Virgin Hyperloop views West Virginia as a state on the edge of the tech economy. With our educational institutions, research and development opportunities, skilled workforce, low cost of living, and high quality of life, West Virginia is the ideal selection. I've been a consistent advocate for this project and am thrilled we've been selected as the site. Not only does this announcement prove that West Virginia is moving forward, but it also shows that we have what it takes to draw in more technology jobs that will support the future of transportation. This is a tremendous day for all of West Virginia, but particularly Tucker and Grant counties. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-flood-relief-funding,"Manchin, Capito Announce Flood Relief Funding",2020-10-07,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 07, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce Flood Relief Funding Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $9,123,688 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security. This funding is designated for state management costs associated with the devastating flood in 2016. The 2016 floods devastated our state, taking 23 innocent lives and leaving a wake of destruction in its path. We are still healing our communities four years later, rebuilding schools and homes and supporting our neighbors in need. I'm pleased our state has received this funding to help those families and businesses impacted by the floods as they recover. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for the funding needed to help our fellow West Virginians recover, said Senator Manchin. Every day we are reminded of the lives lost, homes destroyed, and property ravaged because of the terrible flood of 2016. Throughout my time on the Senate Appropriations Committee and now as chairman of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, I have made certain that West Virginia receives the proper level of federal relief funding to rebuild better and safer. West Virginia's mountainous terrain makes us susceptible to high floodwaters that can culminate quickly. As a result, we have to take the necessary steps to be prepared for the future. I will continue to use my role as chairman to secure the funding West Virginia needs and give a voice to those whose lives were impacted by the 2016 flood,said Senator Capito. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-nearly-600k-for-west-virginia-university-research,"Manchin, Capito Announce Nearly $600K For West Virginia University Research",2020-10-07,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 07, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce Nearly $600K For West Virginia University Research Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $599,127 from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for two research projects through the West Virginia University (WVU) Research Corporation. The projects focus on prosthetic joint infection treatment and natural gas byproducts. West Virginia University continues to be a leader in many research fields, from medicine to the environment. One of the projects awarded today aims to develop a drug to treat prosthetic joint infections, helping many West Virginians successfully adjust to their new prosthetics without the complication of infection, said Senator Manchin. The other project plans to explore innovative uses of natural gas to grow manufacturing opportunities in West Virginia for useful and high value products like carbon-free hydrogen. This research will greatly benefit our economy and our workforce as we look to maximize the value of natural gas production. I look forward to seeing the benefits of this research and will continue to prioritize research conducted here in the Mountain State. The National Science Foundation and West Virginia University Research Corporation continue to work together to move West Virginia forward, said Senator Capito. Not only do these projects work to provide quality research opportunities to students, but also they help improve the lives of people across our state. I am encouraged to see this continued partnership in our state and stand ready at the federal level to support additional research projects like this in West Virginia. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-21-million-for-development-projects-in-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce $2.1 Million For Development Projects In West Virginia",2020-10-06,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 06, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $2.1 Million For Development Projects In West Virginia Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $2,100,000 from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for development projects in West Virginia. Economic development investments spur West Virginia's economy and benefit our workforce. The ARC has been a great partner for the Mountain State, investing in projects that help our communities grow. I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of these awards and will continue to work with ARC to fund economic development across the state, said Senator Manchin. ARC continues to be a steadfast partner for West Virginia, providing support in a variety of areas from water infrastructure to economic development. The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges in all different sectors of West Virginia, so partnerships with federal entities like ARC are all the more important. The announcement of both projects is welcome news, as this funding will help provide better potable water service in Wyoming County, as well as structural support to WorkForce West Virginia as they play a critical role in our economic recovery. I look forward to our state's continued partnership with ARC as we work together to create a better future for West Virginia and Appalachia, said Senator Capito. Individual awards listed below: $1,850,000 Wyoming County Commission Coal Mountain Waterline Extension $250,000 West Virginia Development Office Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-years-of-manchin-urging-fcc-commits-to-fixing-incorrect-broadband-coverage-maps,"After Years Of Manchin Urging, FCC Commits To Fixing Incorrect Broadband Coverage Maps",2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 05, 2020 After Years Of Manchin Urging, FCC Commits To Fixing Incorrect Broadband Coverage Maps Charleston, WV Today, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai announced the FCC would heed calls from U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) to implement the Broadband DATA Act, which requires the FCC to update their broadband coverage maps to accurately represent unserved areas, before the $9 billion 5G Fund for Rural America is distributed. After years of ringing the alarm about our lack of broadband coverage and the errors in the FCC's broadband coverage maps, the FCC has finally agreed to update the maps before distributing the $9 billion 5G Fund for Rural America. West Virginia will only get one bite at this apple and without these mapping updates, many areas without coverage would not have been eligible for any of this funding. At least now we can compete. This would not have happened without the nearly 2,000 West Virginianswhoconducted their own speed tests and sent them to my office. I first and foremost want to thank every West Virginian who took the time to conduct and send a speed test. I also want to thank the FCC for recognizing the unjust inaccuracies of these maps and making this necessary correction. Because of these efforts, rural communities across our state will at least have a fair opportunity to get covered, said Senator Manchin. To view a timeline of Senator Manchin's efforts to expand broadband access, pleaseclick here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-31-million-for-covid-19-testing-in-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce $3.1 Million For COVID-19 Testing In West Virginia",2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 05, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $3.1 Million For COVID-19 Testing In West Virginia Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $3,103,241 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to help West Virginia University (WVU) increase COVID-19 testing in underserved and vulnerable communities across West Virginia. Widespread COVID-19 testing is one of the most effective ways to curb the spread of this virus. As the state with the most vulnerable population, we must continue to face this public health crisis by providing all West Virginians access to COVID-19 testing, said Senator Manchin. On September 3rd, I wrote to HHS urging them to support this project to increase testing in our communities. I am pleased HHS is supporting this initiative to increase testing in underserved communities across the Mountain State and will continue to advocate for funding that helps our family, friends, and neighbors be as safe as possible during this pandemic. As we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, we must make sure we have widespread testing available, including in our rural and underserved areas, said Senator Capito. With a larger emphasis on testing, we will be able to better-identify asymptomatic cases, increase contact tracing, and maintain a targeted approach to limiting the impact of COVID-19 in communities across our state. I have been a tireless advocate for increased testing resources to West Virginia throughout the pandemic, and I am thrilled to see this support from HHS coming through. West Virginia is seeing both lower positivity and reproductive rates of COVID-19 today. This grant funding is welcome news and will help us build off this momentum and take the necessary steps to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our state. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-funding-for-west-virginia-university,"Manchin, Capito Announce Funding For West Virginia University",2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 05, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce Funding For West Virginia University Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $253,996 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for West Virginia University (WVU). This funding will support programs that work to prevent future opioid abuse and prepare future occupational therapists for treatment and prevention of substance use disorders. The drug epidemic has ravaged West Virginia for years, tearing apart families and hurting our communities and the COVID-19 pandemic has only made the epidemic worse. This funding will help West Virginia University as they work to address substance use disorder and train doctors to prevent future opioid misuse. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for funding that helps our state address this terrible epidemic and support our fellow West Virginians during their time of need, said Senator Manchin. West Virginia University continues to be a leader in our state in assisting our efforts to end the opioid epidemic in our communities,said Senator Capito. Time and time again, WVU has shown that its research capabilities can go toe-to-toe with other higher education institutions across the country. It is important that we make resources available now, so that future leaders and medical professionals will be able to step up to the challenges of tomorrow and help those impacted by substance use. I am thankful for all that WVU continues to do for our state and look forward to the impacts that these programs will make. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-homeless-children-and-youth-in-west-virginia-need-assistance-now-more-than-ever,Manchin: Homeless Children And Youth In West Virginia Need Assistance Now More Than Ever,2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 05, 2020 Manchin: Homeless Children And Youth In West Virginia Need Assistance Now More Than Ever Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) highlighted the increased needs of homeless children and youth in West Virginia due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In June, Senator Manchin introduced the Emergency Family Stabilization Act to provide flexible funding for community-based organizations to meet the unique needs of children, youth, and families experiencing homelessness. Across our country, 1.5 million students don't have a roof over their head or a safe place to sleep. In West Virginia alone there are more than 10,000 students who don't know where they'll be sleeping tonight. And this has only gotten worse during the COVID-19 pandemic due to high unemployment, unstable living conditions, and job insecurity. This year, 14 sites in West Virginia received more than $500,000 through the McKinney Vento program to hire social workers, provide in-school and at-home tutoring, purchase school supplies and clothing, and much more, said Senator Manchin. While this is a great success and I'm pleased the funding was allocated to great programs, there were more applications that weren't supported due to limited funds. This shows that we have a higher demand for assistance to help our homeless children and youth and not enough funding to support the programs. I urge my colleagues to include the Emergency Family Stabilization Act in the next COVID-19 relief package to ensure the families experiencing homelessness receive the help they need. Fact sheet on the Emergency Family Stabilization Act can be found here. Timeline of Senator Manchin's work to address homelessness can be found here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-welcome-1-150th-cavalry-regiment-home,Manchin Welcomes 1-150th Cavalry Regiment Home,2020-10-03,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 03, 2020 Manchin Welcomes 1-150th Cavalry Regiment Home Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) welcomed the 1st Squadron 150th Cavalry Regiment of the West Virginia Army National Guard safely home. Senator Manchin sent a video welcoming the soldiers home. As former Governor of the Mountain State, the greatest honor of my life was serving as Commander in Chief of the best National Guard in the nation. West Virginians have helped keep America safe for generations, and I am so proud to see you all carrying on that legacy. I'm thankful to see you all home safe from your deployment as you sacrifice to keep your fellow West Virginians and Americans safe. Welcome home. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-funding-for-west-virginia-fire-departments,"Manchin, Capito Announce Funding For West Virginia Fire Departments",2020-10-02,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 02, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce Funding For West Virginia Fire Departments WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. SenatorsJoe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $1,335,292 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Securitys (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for fire departments across the state of West Virginia. This funding was made available through FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. West Virginia's firefighters put themselves at risk over and over again to protect their fellow West Virginians without question and continue to do so during the COVID-19 pandemic that has affected every West Virginian and American. Our fire departments should never struggle to get the funding they need, and especially not during a public health crisis. I will continue to fight for our first responders to ensure they have the support they deserve, said Senator Manchin. Our firefighters are on the front lines each and every day in West Virginia, and they courageously provide services that we rely on to maintain safe communities. We must make certain that our fire departments receive the level of support they needespecially the departments in more rural areas of our stateso that they can continue to do their jobs safety and effectively. I am so thankful for our firefighters in West Virginia and will continue to advocate for the support they need through my role as chairman of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee,said Senator Capito. Individual awards listed below: Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen's Association/Falling Waters, W.Va. $532,866 West Virginia University $357,826 Kermit Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. $291,398 Mason Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. $78,761 City of Belington $47,619 Ranson Independent Fire Co. No. 1, Inc. $24,468 Chapmanville Volunteer Fire Department $2,354 Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-millions-in-usda-funding-for-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce Millions In USDA Funding For West Virginia",2020-10-02,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 02, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce Millions In USDA Funding For West Virginia Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $27,028,072 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support rural development in communities across West Virginia. The funding will be used for a variety of services, including rural business development, housing preservation, renewable energy expansion, and infrastructure improvements with the goals of increasing economic development and job creation. Economic development is vital to growing our state and I am pleased the USDA is investing in communities across West Virginia. These projects will boost our workforce, assist small businesses, and ensure our fellow West Virginians have a roof over their head. I look forward to seeing the benefits of these awards and will continue to advocate for funding that helps rural communities flourish, said Senator Manchin. Since coming to Congress, expanding economic development and creating jobs for hard working West Virginians have been major priorities of mine. Over the last several years, we have seen lower unemployment rates, higher state revenue, and increased business development across the Mountain State. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a crippling impact on our economy and way of life. Investments like these are crucial to having a strong comeback in West Virginia. I continue to be in constant communication with people back home and leaders in our communities as I continue to advocate for targeted relief that directly impacts the local economies of our state,said Senator Capito. Individual awards listed below: USDA Rural Energy for America Program: Whiteman Bowling Center (Weirton) $48,606 H & H Cattle, Inc. (Letart) $34,376 USDA rural business development grants: City of Bluefield $94,000 Brooke-Hancock Regional Planning $50,000 Marshall University Research Corporation $50,000 Wyoming County Recovery Network, Inc. $50,000 City of Princeton $50,000 Civil-Military Innovation Institute (Shepherdstown) $47,500 West Virginia Forrest Products Cooperative (Princeton) $45,000 City of Welch $25,000 Semper Liberi, Inc. (Martinsburg) $19,405 USDA Housing Preservation Grants: Community Resources, Inc., (Parkersburg) $50,000 Change, Inc. (Weirton) $18,185 Community Facilities Direct Loan: Valley Healthcare System (Pleasant Valley) $4,000,000 Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants: Adrian Public Service District (French Creek) $8,751,000 White Oak Public Service District (Scarbro) $4,474,000 New Creek Water Association, Inc. (New Creek) $4,396,000 Wilderness Public Service District (Mount Nebo) $2,790,000 Mingo County Public Service District $1,985,000",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/yesterday-manchin-met-with-supreme-court-nominee-amy-coney-barrett,Yesterday: Manchin Met With Supreme Court Nominee Amy Coney Barrett,2020-10-02,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 02, 2020 Yesterday: Manchin Met With Supreme Court Nominee Amy Coney Barrett Washington, DC Yesterday, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) met with Supreme Court nominee, Judge Amy Coney Barrett. Yesterday, I had a pleasant meeting with Judge Amy Coney Barrett to discuss her experience, record, and thoughts on issues that will impact West Virginians. Despite her impressive background and credentials, Judge Barrett offered no contrast to her prior views and writings about the Affordable Care Actwhich continue to give me serious concerns if she were to sit on the U.S. Supreme Court. If confirmed, she will rule on the Texas vs. Californiacase that will determine the future of healthcare for vulnerable West Virginians and Americans, including 800,000 West Virginians with preexisting conditions. I will closely examine the Senate Judiciary hearings and encourage West Virginians to as well. In the history of our country, a Supreme Court justice has never been confirmed this close to a presidential election. Mitch McConnell's unprecedented rush for confirmation is fanning the flames of division at a time when Americans are deeply divided. I oppose this process and breaking the precedent that we have adhered to for more than 240 years. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-applauds-coalfields-expressway-progress,Manchin Applauds Coalfields Expressway Progress,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 01, 2020 Manchin Applauds Coalfields Expressway Progress Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) applauded the progress made on the Coalfields Expressway which connects West Virginia's southern counties. Today is a great day for Southern West Virginia as we celebrate the major progress made on the Coalfields Expressway, connecting our state from Slab Fork to Mullens. During my time as Governor, I worked to get the funds and flexibility needed to complete this project, and I'm proud of everyone who has worked tirelessly to make this a reality. This is a wonderful achievement for West Virginia and I look forward to seeing the next section of the Expressway completed. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-bill-to-expand-broadband-access-to-unserved-rural-west-virginians,Manchin Bill To Expand Broadband Access To Unserved Rural West Virginians,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 01, 2020 Manchin Bill To Expand Broadband Access To Unserved Rural West Virginians Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced the bipartisan Eliminate the Digital Divide Act which would create a $10 billion fund to help rural states like West Virginia expand broadband access in unserved areas. We all know access to reliable broadband is vital for small businesses, healthcare, students, and families, but West Virginia and rural America are still being left behind, said Senator Manchin. The Eliminate the Digital Divide Act would distribute $10 billion equally based on each state's total of underserved areas, not just to the easiest and least costly areas. In fact, this bill includes $1 billion for high cost areas like West Virginia with mountainous terrain and other complicating factors so they can receive their fair share of funding to expand broadband coverage. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join our legislation and help bring broadband access to every American, no matter where they live. The Eliminate the Digital Divide Act would: Address the Rural Digital Divide by creating a $10 billion State Broadband Program where governors receive funds based on the number of unserved individuals in their state, not through the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) normal reverse auction process that disadvantages rural areas that are more expensive to serve. Governors will partner with broadband service providers to build out networks to their unserved individuals. Unserved areas will be based on the Broadband DATA Act, which requires the FCC to create a new, more accurate national map of unserved areas. As the only Member of Congress to formally challenge the federal broadband coverage maps, Senator Manchin has been fighting to ensure that this process gets funding to the people that need it the most. States and local governments will also have a chance to challenge the maps to ensure that areas without service are eligible for funding which is often not the case. Senator Manchin knows that West Virginians can tell you where there is and isn't coverage throughout the state, and this bill allows them to have a voice in the process. High cost areas will receive additional funding assistance through a set aside of $1 billion specifically for areas where broadband infrastructure is more costly to build, including rural, mountainous areas like West Virginia that are more than 3 times more expensive to serve on average than areas like Oklahoma. States will partner with broadband entities to build in unserved areas within 3 years of receiving awards. The bill also establishes a mechanism to hold providers accountable if they fail to provide the promised service on time. Address the Urban/ Low-Income Digital Divide by providing a platform for consumers to access information on the broadband options available to them. Amends the Broadband DATA Act to require the FCC to also collect data from broadband service providers on any low-income service options offered to their subscribers. The platform would provide consumers with the capability to enter their own financial information and see if they qualify for any state or federal subsidy programs (like Lifeline) and how to apply for that program. One pager on the Eliminate the Digital Divide Act can be found here. Section by section of the Eliminate the Digital Divide Act can be found here. Bill text can be found here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-introduce-legislation-to-improve-transparency-at-va-medical-centers,"Manchin, Capito Introduce Legislation To Improve Transparency At VA Medical Centers",2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 01, 2020 Manchin, Capito Introduce Legislation To Improve Transparency At VA Medical Centers Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV)today introduced legislation that would require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to submit to Congress a report on the use of security cameras in VA medical centers. The legislation would help better address transparency issues at VAMC's in light of the deaths of veterans at the Clarksburg VA Medical Center. Our Veterans risk their lives to protect our nation and our people. When they return home, they deserve to be treated with respect and given the best care possible. It has been over two years since we all learned of the horrific murders at the Clarksburg VAMC and I am still demanding answers from the VA, said Senator Manchin. The heinous actions of the former Clarksburg VAMC employee and her recent guilty plea shone a light on oversight issues at the facility, which is why Senator Capito and I are introducing legislation that requires the VA to submit a report on the use of security cameras at VA facilities. Had there been security cameras in place at the facility, Veteran lives may have been saved and we must do everything possible to ensure no more Veterans are murdered at VAMC facilities. I will continue working with my colleagues to pass this commonsense legislation to provide Veterans and their families with peace of mind. Following the troubling news out of the Clarksburg VA, I have remained in close contact with those involved in this investigation to ensure that we not only get answers, but also to make sure situations like this do not occur in the future. In one of my conversations with VA Inspector General Michael Missal, he cited the lack of eye witnesses or security footage as a complicating factor in the Clarksburg investigation. Our legislation would change this and improve transparency. Specifically, it would provide the Senate with insight on the utilization of security cameras at VA medical centers across the country so we can better-determine how to tackle this issue and ensure patient safety,Senator Capito said. A copy of the legislation can be viewed here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/bipartisan-senators-reintroduce-resolution-dedicating-september-as-childhood-cancer-awareness-month,Bipartisan Senators Reintroduce Resolution Dedicating September As Childhood Cancer Awareness Month,2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 30, 2020 Bipartisan Senators Reintroduce Resolution Dedicating September As Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and Tim Scott (R-SC) introduced a resolution to recognize September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Last year during an event in West Virginia, Nick Spence, a student and survivor of childhood cancer, approached me with the great idea to dedicate September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Shortly after, I led my colleagues in introducing a resolution to do just that. This year, we are reintroducing the resolution to ensure that September is dedicated to childhood cancer and raising awareness about this terrible battle many of our children face every day. I am incredibly proud of Nick for standing up for this important cause and look forward to the Senate passing our bipartisan resolution, said Senator Manchin. Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is a time for us to honor the strength of the children who have fought the unthinkable. Together, we celebrate survivors of childhood cancer, honor their families, and remember those who are no longer with us, said Senator Hawley. Since President Trump signed my Childhood Cancer STAR Act into law, children battling cancer continue to see better outcomes thanks to more advanced research. I'm proud to join my colleagues in recognizing September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Together, we're working towards a world without cancer, Senator Capito said. Childhoods are often full of fun memories like football or softball games, birthday parties and playful times in the park, but for children battling cancer these memories can be distant,said Senator Tim Scott. I am grateful that my Senate colleagues are highlighting this disease that affects thousands of American families each year. I am proud of these little heroes for enduring these everyday battles, and I look forward to my Senate colleagues supporting this resolution. To view the resolution, click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-applaud-26-million-investment-for-water-infrastructure-improvements-in-kenova,"Manchin, Capito Applaud $2.6 Million Investment For Water Infrastructure Improvements In Kenova",2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 30, 2020 Manchin, Capito Applaud $2.6 Million Investment For Water Infrastructure Improvements In Kenova Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today applauded a $2.6 million investment from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to the city of Kenova, West Virginia, to make water infrastructure improvements needed to spur business growth and economic development throughout the region. This EDA grant will be matched with $966,000 in local funds and is expected to create 39 jobs, save 474 jobs, and generate $4.25 million in private investment. Investing in West Virginia's infrastructure is vital to boosting our regional economies and workforce, and I am pleased the EDA is yet again investing in our state. This funding will provide Kenova with the needed assistance to improve their water infrastructure, creating jobs and supporting our communities. I look forward to continuing our strong relationship with the EDA to create economic development through investments across West Virginia, said Senator Manchin. EDA continues to be an essential partner for West Virginia as we work to grow our economy and create jobs,said Senator Capito. This funding will help ensure future development in Wayne County by making critical improvements to water infrastructure along the Tolsia Highway. As chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I have fought to bring funding into West Virginia to improve our state's infrastructure. These investments support business growth, spur economic development, and improve the everyday lives of West Virginians. I am very pleased to secure this funding through the EDA and look forward to the positive change it will make in Wayne County. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-the-only-people-covered-by-protect-act-are-senate-republicans,Manchin: The Only People Covered By Protect Act Are Senate Republicans,2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 30, 2020 Manchin: The Only People Covered By Protect Act Are Senate Republicans Washington, DC U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on his vote against the Protect Act a misleading bill that will do nothing to protect Americans with pre-existing conditions from losing their access to comprehensive healthcare. For 10 years, Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans have been leading the charge to dismantle the Affordable Care Act without a replacement plan. We now find ourselves 42 days away from the Texas vs. California arguments and Senate Republicans are once again shopping a do-nothing bill to fool Americans into thinking their loved ones with pre-existing conditions will be protected. The only people covered by this bill are Senate Republicans. The Affordable Care Act is in need of repairs but to throw the baby out with the bathwater will leave 800,000 West Virginians with pre-existing conditions without the care they desperately need. Background Senator Thom Tillis' (R-NC) Protect Act was initially introduced in April 2019 and reintroduced just last week. The proposal fails to provide an explanation for treatments for pre-existing condition exclusions. Meaning that while a consumer with pre-existing conditions can gain coverage, the bill could allow insurers to exclude certain types of care. For example, a patient with a history of cancer would gain insurance coverage, but the insurer would be able to exclude coverage for screenings or treatment for a reoccurrence of cancer. It poses no limit on how much more insurers in the individual market could charge a patient dependent on health status, age gender or occupation. Meaning a woman of childbearing age could be charged more because of her gender, as well as a 50 year old with heart disease, because of their age. Current protections for patients with pre-existing conditions include: Guaranteed access to insurance in the individual market regardless of health. Previously, insurers typically usedmedical underwritingto deny coverage to people with pre-existing conditions, and also excluded coverage of any pre-existing conditions for people who were accepted. Community rating in the individual and small business markets, prohibiting insurers from varying premiums based on people's health, which was common before the ACA. Required coverage of essential benefits. Prior to the ACA, insurers in the individual market oftenexcluded coverage of maternity, mental health, and substance abuse. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-there-is-no-widespread-voter-fraud-in-west-virginia,Manchin: There Is No Widespread Voter Fraud In West Virginia,2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 30, 2020 Manchin: There Is No Widespread Voter Fraud In West Virginia Washington, DC U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today released the following statement after President Trump falsely claimed West Virginia has widespread voter fraud issues. It's plain wrong that President Trump would mislead Americans to think mail-in voter fraud is happening in West Virginia. There is no widespread voter fraud in West Virginia and any claim to the contrary is false. The truth is one mail carrier altered five ballot request forms from Democrat to Republican in the primary election in Pendleton County. The judicial and electoral system worked: he was caught, charged with attempted election fraud and pled guilty. Mail-in voting is safe and altering ballots is a felony punishable with up to 5 years in prison and a $20,000 fine in West Virginia, inaddition to any federal penalty. To suggest anything different is just not true and an attempt to undermine Americans' faith in our Democratic process and disparage West Virginia is wrong. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-21-million-for-rural-community-workforce-opportunity,"Manchin, Capito Announce $2.1 Million For Rural Community Workforce Opportunity",2020-09-29,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 29, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $2.1 Million For Rural Community Workforce Opportunity Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV),members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $2,105,233 from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to support workforce development efforts in West Virginia. This funding was made available through the Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) program and will assist with economic development initiatives for locations hard-hit by economic transition. West Virginians have proven over and over again that if you invest in our state, we return it tenfold. The Williamson Health and Wellness Center and Blue Ridge Community and Technical College are great examples of this, excelling in providing healthcare to rural West Virginians and preparing students for the 21st Century workforce. I'm pleased by this investment to spur economic development and look forward to seeing the benefits to our workforce for years to come, said Senator Manchin. As we continue to look towards a brighter future for all of our communities in West Virginia, the necessary resources must be provided to spur economic development in areas that need it most,said Senator Capito. I've had the chance to visit both Blue Ridge Community and Technical College in the Eastern Panhandle and Williamson Health and Wellness Center in Mingo County to see firsthand the fantastic work they are doing for the people of our state. I look forward to the opportunities these awards will create, and I thank both award recipients for their continued dedication to West Virginia. Individual awards listed below: Williamson Health and Wellness Center $1,352,129 Blue Ridge Community and Technical College $753,104 Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-cornyn-bill-to-require-companies-report-illicit-online-drug-sales,"Manchin, Cornyn Bill To Require Companies Report Illicit Online Drug Sales",2020-09-29,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 29, 2020 Manchin, Cornyn Bill To Require Companies Report Illicit Online Drug Sales Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced the See Something, Say Something Online Act to stop the illicit sale of opioids and other drugs online by amending Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act to require companies report illegal activity on their online platforms. When Section 230 was written into law in 1996, the Internet was completely different. Today, nearly all of us carry the Internet in our pocket, using our phones to call cabs, buy groceries, and message friends and family across town and across the globe, but the same technology that has made us more connected has also made it easier to conduct illegal activity online, said Senator Manchin. Each year, authorities seize enough fentanyl to kill every American four times over, much of it ordered over the Internet and sent by mail from China. As the Internet rapidly changed, we failed to keep up. Now we must amend Section 230 to reflect the way the Internet impacts our lives today both good and bad. That's why Senator Cornyn and I are introducing the bipartisan legislation that would require companies to say something when they see something illegal online. This commonsense approach would create a clear mechanism for reporting criminal activity online, requiring companies to take reasonable steps to report unlawful activity or be held liable for that failure. It is past time we held these sites accountable. High-level drug offenses, violent crimes like murder, and even acts of terrorism are documented online, and it's past time that technology platforms play a role in standing up for the victims of these types of crimes by saying something when they see something,said Senator Cornyn.By requiring technology platforms to file reports when they become aware that a major crime has been committed, this legislation keeps platforms accountable and helps authorities deliver justice. The See Something, Say Something Online Act would change Section 230 by: Requiring companies to report suspicious activity to law enforcement, similar to the way that banks are required to report suspicious transactions over $10,000 or others that might signal criminal activity. Creating a system similar to the Bank Secrecy Act by authorizing the creation of an office within the Department of Justice (DOJ) to act as the clearinghouse for these reports, similar to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) within the Department of Treasury. Raising the threshold for reporting to serious crimes like illegal drug sales, hate crimes, murder, or terrorism to ensure that users' privacy remains safe. Requiring that companies must take reasonable steps to prevent or address unlawful activity and can be held liable if they fail to report criminal activity. Background information on the See Something, Say Something Online Act can be found here. Bill text can be found here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-new-appalachian-league-format-will-bring-future-stars-to-west-virginias-baseball-fields,Manchin: New Appalachian League Format Will Bring Future Stars To West Virginia's Baseball Fields,2020-09-29,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 29, 2020 Manchin: New Appalachian League Format Will Bring Future Stars To West Virginia's Baseball Fields Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) applauded the Major League Baseball (MLB), USA Baseball, and Appalachian League decision to reformat the Appalachian League to become part of the Prospect Development Pipeline. In November 2019, Senator Manchin vowed to find a solution to save West Virginia's minor league teams after Major League Baseball considered eliminating teams in West Virginia. After months of conversations with Major League Baseball, USA Baseball, and the Appalachian League, I am pleased by this agreement to bring the Appalachian League into the Prospect Development Pipeline. This collaboration will directly benefit our two Appalachian League teams in Bluefield and Princeton, which provide many West Virginians with entertainment and family time and foster a love of the American pastime, said Senator Manchin. Through this new arrangement, our communities will host the premier baseball players in the country, giving West Virginians a chance to see baseball's future stars before they reach the big leagues. I am committed to ensuring the future of all of West Virginia's minor league teams, and I will work with everyone involved to ensure these teams receive the support they need to succeed during this transition and look forward to seeing top talent play in the Mountain State for many years to come. The Prospect Development Pipeline (PDP), the collaborative effort between MLB and USA Baseball that establishes a player development pathway for amateur baseball players in the United States, will be an integral part of the identification and development process for the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team and other future national teams. Appalachian League participants will receive extensive visibility to MLB Club scouts through both in-person observation and state-of-the-art scouting technology. Players will receive instruction from former MLB players and educational programming designed to prepare them for careers as professional athletes. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-applauds-progress-on-iaeger-cellular-tower,Manchin Applauds Progress On Iaeger Cellular Tower,2020-09-28,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 28, 2020 Manchin Applauds Progress On Iaeger Cellular Tower Charleston, WV Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) applauded the progress that has been made on the AT&T cellular tower in Iaeger in McDowell County. Once completed, the tower will provide cellular service to West Virginians who currently have little to no service. After years of working alongside local officials in Iaeger and McDowell County, I look forward to the completion of the new AT&T cellular tower in Iaeger that will provide unprecedented service across our coal counties.I thank my friend, Mayor Joe Ford, for his efforts in making this project a reality for the people of McDowell County. As we near the completion of the tower, I will continue to work with Mayor Ford and AT&T to ensure this project is finished. This is a huge step forward in providing West Virginians with service and connecting us with the rest of the world, said Senator Manchin. The progress made on the cell tower in Iaeger is encouraging for our community because finally having cell service will be a game-changer for our scenic river town. As Mayor of Iaeger, I've worked with Senator Manchin for years on this project and I thank him for his tireless efforts to make this a reality, said Joe Ford, Mayor of Iaeger. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-24-million-for-local-law-enforcement-domestic-violence-prevention-in-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce $2.4 Million For Local Law Enforcement, Domestic Violence Prevention In West Virginia",2020-09-28,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 28, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $2.4 Million For Local Law Enforcement, Domestic Violence Prevention In West Virginia Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $2,410,758 from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) STOP Formula Grant Program. The JAG Program funding will be used to support initiatives including drug task forces, crime prevention, justice information sharing initiatives, and other programs aimed at reducing crime or enhancing the safety of the public and officers. The VAWA STOP Formula Grant Program funding will support prevention programs that combat rural sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and provide comprehensive services to victims of sexual assault. Across West Virginia, we count on our law enforcement to protect our communities and watch out for our family, friends, and neighbors. This funding not only supports our law enforcement but also assists our sexual assault victim programs and services, ensuring West Virginians affected by these terrible acts of violence are cared for. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue fighting for funding that ensures our fellow West Virginians receive the help they need, said Senator Manchin. Local law enforcement offices and officers play such an important role in the safety of our communities. We rely on them for a variety of services, making these federal grants crucial for our state. Provisions to combat sexual assault and provide services to victims of assault have been major priorities of mine through my role on the Senate Appropriations Committee. I am committed to ensuring that our communities have the resources they need to keep West Virginians safe and ensure peace of mind in our communities,said Senator Capito. Individual awards listed below: Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program: West Virginia Division Of Justice And Community Services $1,072,540 City of Beckley, Inc. $23,241 Nicholas County Commission $22,031 City of Bluefield $15,833 City of Morgantown $12,783 Berkeley County Council $10,846 County of Fayette $10,652 Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) STOP Formula Grant Program: West Virginia Division Of Justice And Community Services $1,242,832 Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/09/26/2020/manchin-statement-on-presidents-supreme-court-nominee,Manchin Statement On President's Supreme Court Nominee,2020-09-26,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 26, 2020 Manchin Statement On President's Supreme Court Nominee Charleston, WV U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today issued a statement on President Trump's Supreme Court nominee, Judge Amy Coney Barrett. As West Virginia's Senator, I have always taken my Constitutional obligation to advise and consent on a nominee for a Supreme Court vacancy extremely seriously. I will review Judge Coney Barrett's legal qualifications and judicial philosophy just as I have done with every Supreme Court nominee that has come before the Senate during my time as a Senator. Rushing to confirm a Supreme Court nominee weeks before a presidential election has never been done before in the history of our nation and it will only fan the flames of division at a time when our country is deeply divided. I cannot support a process that risks further division of the American people at a time when we desperately need to come together. I will not vote to confirm Judge Coney Barrett or any Supreme Court nominee before Election Dayon November 3rd. I urge my Republican friends to slowdown, put people before politics, and give their constituents a chance to vote. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-bill-to-help-opioid-overdose-victims-in-west-virginia,Manchin Bill To Help Opioid Overdose Victims In West Virginia,2020-09-25,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 25, 2020 Manchin Bill To Help Opioid Overdose Victims In West Virginia Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) led a bicameral, bipartisan group of Members of Congress in introducing the Improving Medicaid Programs' Response to Overdose Victims and Enhancing (IMPROVE) Addiction Care Act to provide greater assistance to individuals who have struggled with opioid misuse and abuse. The IMPROVE Addiction Care Act would require state Medicaid programs to use jointly-funded drug utilization review programs to increase access to treatment and boost safeguards for those on Medicaid who have experienced a non-fatal, opioid-related overdose. The legislation would close a dangerous information gap that keeps prescribers uninformed about a patient who overdoses. Every West Virginian has experienced the impacts of the opioid epidemic on our family, friends, and neighbors. Today I joined my bipartisan, bicameral colleagues in introducing theIMPROVE Addiction Care Actto strengthen Drug Utilization Review programs across the nation to prevent opioid overdoses by helping to better connect Medicaid patients to treatment options. Americans who have overdosed need our help getting back on their feet through treatment programs, and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and in both chambers to support this commonsense legislation,said Senator Manchin. Specifically, the IMPROVE Addiction Care Act requires that states use drug utilization review programs to: Alert: Ensure that doctors are aware if their Medicaid-enrolled patient has suffered a previous nonfatal overdose and alert the prescriber when one of their patients suffers a fatal overdose Treat: Connect recent opioid overdose survivors who receive Medicaid benefits with treatment opportunities Educate: Perform ongoing reviews and offer provider education In 2018, Congress passed the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act resulting in Medicare Part D plan sponsors being notified of individuals with a history of opioid-related overdoseno notification or case management was previously required solely based on previous non-fatal overdose occurrence, despite studies linking previous non-fatal overdoses to subsequent fatal overdoses. Arecent studyof 3,606 Medicaid-enrolled adolescents (ages 13-22) who experienced an opioid-related overdose found that only one in 54 received medication-assisted treatment and less than one in three received any treatment whatsoever. Equally concerning, Medicaid beneficiaries often continue receiving legal opioid prescriptions even after suffering a nonfatal, opioid-related overdose.In West Virginia, 91% of drug overdose deaths between 2001-2017 had a documented history of receiving a controlled substance prescription, with 36-49% of those who died having refilled their prescriptions within 30 days. Boston University and Harvard Medical Schoolfound that 91% of patients who suffered an opioid-related overdose between 2000 and 2012 received another legal opioid prescription within a year. One pager on the IMPROVE Addiction Care Act can be found here. Bill text can be found here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-funding-for-covid-19-vaccine-preparedness-in-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce Funding For COVID-19 Vaccine Preparedness In West Virginia",2020-09-25,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 25, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce Funding For COVID-19 Vaccine Preparedness In West Virginia Charleston, WV U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV),members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $908,926 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service (HHS) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to provide critical infrastructure support regarding to COVID-19 vaccine preparedness. This funding was made available through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. As researchers work to create a safe, reliable COVID-19 vaccine we must be prepared to quickly distribute this vaccine to ensure it is widely available to all Americans and West Virginians. This funding will help ensure West Virginia is prepared for the vaccine by working with our health departments, hospitals, health centers, and providers. I will continue to work in Washington to secure funding that helps our state and our people during these difficult times, said Senator Manchin. As we move closer to having an available COVID-19 vaccine, we must make certain that infrastructural support is in place for distribution and administration of the vaccine,said Senator Capito. One way that we will be able to achieve that is by keeping constant communication and building close partnerships between health agencies on the federal level and local health departments and clinics in West Virginia. We must ensure that we are prepared for vaccine distribution, so when the vaccine is ready, we can quickly distribute it to those who need it the most. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-applaud-103-million-fda-investment-into-west-virginia-small-businesses-entrepreneurs,"Manchin, Capito Applaud $10.3 Million FDA Investment Into West Virginia Small Businesses, Entrepreneurs",2020-09-25,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 25, 2020 Manchin, Capito Applaud $10.3 Million FDA Investment Into West Virginia Small Businesses, Entrepreneurs Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today applauded a $10.3 million investment from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for the West Virginia Economic Development Authority. This investment will capitalize and administer a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) that will provide critical gap financing to small businesses and entrepreneurs adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic across West Virginia. Small businesses and entrepreneurs across West Virginia have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, hurting communities and families across our state. I am pleased the EDA is investing $10.3 million to support pandemic recovery efforts for businesses through the West Virginia Economic Development Authority, said Senator Manchin. Small businesses and entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy and they need a helping hand during these difficult times. This funding will give our businesses the assistance needed to get back on their feet and contribute to the state's economy in the years to come as we recover from the virus. This funding is fantastic news for small business owners still weathering the effects of COVID-19. The EDA has been a valuable partner in spurring economic growth in our state. Their investments have paid off and have resulted in the development of a pipeline of projects that have and will continue to lead to job retention and creation across West Virginia. I'll continue working with the EDA to help drive funding like this to West Virginia and deliver results that contribute to a brighter economic future for our state,Senator Capito said. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-young-ernst-vela-palmer-lead-members-in-calling-on-ndaa-conferees-to-save-chief-management-officer-uphold-accountability-at-dod,"Manchin, Young, Ernst, Vela, Palmer Lead Members In Calling On NDAA Conferees To Save Chief Management Officer, Uphold Accountability At DOD",2020-09-25,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 25, 2020 Manchin, Young, Ernst, Vela, Palmer Lead Members In Calling On NDAA Conferees To Save Chief Management Officer, Uphold Accountability At DOD Washington, DC Today, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Todd Young (R-IN), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Braun (R-IN), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Doug Jones (D-AL), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Representatives Filemon Vela (D-TX-34), Gary Palmer (R-AL-66), Jim Baird (R-IN-4), Andy Biggs (R-AZ-5), and Bennie Thompson (D-MS-2) sent a letter to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) conferees urging them to save the Chief Management Officer (CMO) position which is tasked with reforming the Department of Defense (DoD) to improve performance and increase accountability. The Members said in part, As you begin conference negotiations on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), we write to urge the preservation of the Chief Management Officer (CMO) position, which Section 901 of the House-passed bill and Section 911 of the Senate-passed bill seek to prematurely terminate. Despite these provisions, the CMO has broad bipartisan and bicameral support As Members of Congress we all have a responsibility to the American taxpayers to work to achieve the objectives of the National Defense Strategy (NDS) as efficiently as possible, and the CMO position is essential to accomplishing that goal. One pager on the CMO position can be found here. The following organizations support retaining the CMO position: The Heritage Foundation, FreedomWorks, Citizens Against Government Waste, Center for American Progress Read the full letter below or click here. Dear Chairmen Inhofe and Smith, Ranking Members Reed and Thornberry, and Conferees: As you begin conference negotiations on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), we write to urge the preservation of the Chief Management Officer (CMO) position, which Section 901 of the House-passed bill and Section 911 of the Senate-passed bill seek to prematurely terminate. Despite these provisions, the CMO has broad bipartisan and bicameral support. The CMO position has the vital task of reforming the Department of Defense (DoD) to improve performance and increase accountability, key tenets of the National Defense Strategy (NDS). As Members of Congress we all have a responsibility to the American taxpayers to work to achieve the objectives of the NDS as efficiently as possible, and the CMO position is essential to accomplishing that goal. In 2018, more than fifteen years after the Government Accountability Office (GAO) initially recommended the establishment of a standalone CMO position, the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) finally authorized the creation of a CMO as third-in-command at DoD to ensure that they would have requisite resources to do their job. Congress approved this structure because all previous efforts undertaken by DoD had failed to achieve the transformational business reform necessary to improve readiness and our ability to respond to rapidly developing threats. Alarmingly, both the House and Senate-passed FY21 NDAA bills would abruptly terminate the CMO position and transfer those responsibilities back to the Deputy Secretary of Defense. We already tried that in 2007. It did not work. The fundamental problem plaguing the CMO position is a lack of authority and resources. Rather than further eroding the limited authority that currently exists, we should come together to demonstrate the broad, bipartisan support that exists for this important position. Congress should reaffirm our mandate for cost savings from the DoD by requiring the Secretary of Defense to issue an official charter for the position of CMO to codify that position's authority within the hierarchy of the Department. The DoD has already concurred with this recommendation. Let us come together Democrats and Republicans to give DoD the resources it needs to get the job done. Our current CMO, Lisa Hershman, was only confirmed to the position by the Senate on December 19, 2019. The initial 2005 GAO study that recommended the establishment of this position recommended a lengthy tenure of 5-7 years. This period of time would allow the CMO to overcome the learning curve of entering the DoD from the outside, have multiple budget cycles to correct mistakes and make systemic reforms, as well as bridge presidential terms to reduce the influence of politics on the position. Let us at least give Ms. Hershman a fighting chance, and come together to adopt the changes needed to make this position work. The U.S. taxpayers that we represent deserve that. The retention of the CMO position not only has bipartisan support in both the House and Senate, it is endorsed by outside organizations such as the Heritage Foundation, FreedomWorks, Citizens Against Government Waste, and the Center for American Progress. We commend you on your leadership and commitment to our Servicemembers, and we look forward to working with you to protect and preserve the CMO position within DoD to better support our men and women in uniform and increase our ability to respond effectively to rapidly developing threats. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-manchin-bill-on-annual-veteran-cost-of-living-adjustment,Senate Passes Manchin Bill On Annual Veteran Cost Of Living Adjustment,2020-09-25,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 25, 2020 Senate Passes Manchin Bill On Annual Veteran Cost Of Living Adjustment Washington, DC Yesterday, the Senate unanimously passed the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) Act of 2020, legislation led by U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee. As one of the most patriotic states in the nation, our brave Veterans have served America with honor. Now it is our turn to take care of them. This legislation ensures that as the cost of living for Americans and West Virginians increases, our Veterans are compensated correctly through their VA benefits. I am pleased the Senate unanimously passed my legislation yesterday to continue the annual adjustment for our Veterans' cost of living, and I look forward to seeing this legislation signed into law. Our Veterans deserve the best care and assistance, and this legislation will help secure their well-deserved benefits, said Senator Manchin. The bipartisan legislation would increase certain VA benefits including disability and dependent compensation, clothing allowances, and dependency and indemnity compensation to surviving spouses and children to reflect increases in the cost of living. The cost of living adjustment will be determined by the annual COLA to social security benefits, as determined by the Social Security Administration and would go into effect Dec. 1, 2020. The Social Security Administration bases their annual COLA adjustment on the Consumer Price Index, as determined each December by the Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-manchins-resolution-to-reaffirm-senates-commitment-to-peaceful-transition-of-power,Senate Passes Manchin's Resolution To Reaffirm Senate's Commitment To Peaceful Transition Of Power,2020-09-24,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 24, 2020 Senate Passes Manchin's Resolution To Reaffirm Senate's Commitment To Peaceful Transition Of Power Washington, DC Today the U.S. Senate unanimously passed U.S. Senator Joe Manchin's (D-WV) resolution to reaffirm the commitment of the U.S. Senate to a peaceful transition of power as called for in the Constitution of the United States. This comes after President Donald Trump refused to commit to a peaceful transition of power if he loses the November 3rd Presidential election. It's a shame that we have to come and reaffirm our commitment to our country, to our constitution, and who we are as a people and how we became a great country, the greatest country on Earth, with the freedoms we all take for grantedWhat we are doing with this resolution is saying that basically the bedrock of democracy is the orderly and peaceful transfer of power when the President transitions out. It should not be a questionWe're in the most difficult times right now, and for the President to even address the subject of maybe not knowing if he would accept [the election results] or not is beyond all of our comprehension that this could ever happen in America. We have come through a lot in our country, and we continue to be challenged, but I believe to have the leader of the free world talk as if we are an autocracy, authoritarian versus a democracy, is something that alarmed me and alarmed a lot of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, even those quiet as some may be, I know they're alarmedThis is not who we are, and we must speak loudly. This is not politics. This is not Republican or Democrat. Make no mistake. This is basically if you believe, for the sake of the good Lord and all we believe in and our country, this is about maintaining this democracy. That's all it's about. Maintaining. And we will defend that, and we have today just reaffirmed our commitment to the orderly transition of power by the President of the United States, whoever that should be, whenever that might happen, that they must have an orderly transfer that we all will defend and uphold. To read the resolution in full, click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hhs-to-investigate-drug-company-after-manchin-calls-on-them-to-protect-access-to-affordable-medicine-for-low-income-west-virginians,HHS To Investigate Drug Company After Manchin Calls On Them To Protect Access To Affordable Medicine For Low-Income West Virginians,2020-09-23,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 23, 2020 HHS To Investigate Drug Company After Manchin Calls On Them To Protect Access To Affordable Medicine For Low-Income West Virginians Washington, DC Today Health and Human Services (HHS) began an investigation of Eli Lilly and Company, one of the many drug makers who have made recent changes to restrict access to the 340B Drug Pricing Program for safety net health providers. This decision comes after Senator Manchin sent a letter last week pressing HHS to protect this access. I am pleased that HHS is taking steps to protect access to safe, affordable medicine for low-income families and healthcare providers. This formal investigation is a good first step, but we must do more. These companies have decided that during the COVID-19 pandemic that has killed over 200,000 Americans, sent millions onto unemployment, and hurt our economy, they should stop providing discounts to certain healthcare providers that serve vulnerable populations like many West Virginians. The 340B program provides essential savings for healthcare providers and in return gives more West Virginians access to affordable medication. I will continue to work with HHS to demand these companies follow the 340B program regulations and provide affordable medicines to Americans and West Virginians in need, as they have since 1992, said Senator Manchin. Recently, a growing number of drug companies have taken steps to deny access to discounted drugs for 340B covered entities that use contract pharmacies, likely in violation of the 340B statute. These actions are restricting access to medications, which have already been more difficult to purchase during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These changes are also negatively affecting West Virginia health centers and healthcare providers who rely on this program to provide vulnerable West Virginians with quality, affordable care. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-58-million-rural-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-investment-in-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce $5.8 Million Rural Water And Wastewater Infrastructure Investment In West Virginia",2020-09-23,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 23, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce $5.8 Million Rural Water And Wastewater Infrastructure Investment In West Virginia Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $5,890,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for rural water and wastewater infrastructure improvements in West Virginia. This funding will be used to support upgrades, improvements, and installation of water and wastewater infrastructure in Wetzel and Kanawha counties. Every West Virginian should be able to turn on their faucet and have access to clean, reliable water. But at times that's not the case, said Senator Manchin. These awards will help the Paden City and Kanawha County communities get the water and wastewater infrastructure they need to provide them with the clean water they deserve. Improving and upgrading our infrastructure is a never-ending cycle, but it's worth every penny to ensure West Virginians have the basic amenities every human should have. It is great to see continued investments from USDA coming to West Virginia. The approximately $5 million Paden City will receive builds on emergency funding I helped secure last year to address legacy PCE contamination by upgrading the water treatment facility. It will alsohelprestore water storage tanks, replace damaged pipelines, and improve the current distribution system. Additionally, this funding will support Kanawha County in the installation of a wastewater pump station near the intersection of Interstate 64 and West Virginia Route 94. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, supporting programs that improve the quality of our water and wastewater infrastructure has been a major priority of mine. All West Virginians deserve access to these basic services, and I will continue to advocate for the improvement projects the people of our state need,said Senator Capito. Individual awards listed below: Paden City, W.Va. $5,165,000 Kanawha Public Service District $725,000 Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-more-than-58-million-for-maternal-infant-and-early-childhood-home-visiting-program-in-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce More Than $5.8 Million For Maternal, Infant, And Early Childhood Home Visiting Program In West Virginia",2020-09-23,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 23, 2020 Manchin, Capito Announce More Than $5.8 Million For Maternal, Infant, And Early Childhood Home Visiting Program In West Virginia Washington U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $5,885,415 through the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration's (HRSA) Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program (MIECHV Program). This funding will be awarded to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and will support communities as they work to provide voluntary, evidence-based home visiting services to women during pregnancy and to parents with young children up to kindergarten entry. Our mothers and children need support during pregnancy and the early years of childhood. This funding will help provide that support to West Virginia mothers, families, and children through visiting services. I am pleased by this investment into our mothers here in the Mountain State and will continue to fight for funding that supports every West Virginia family, said Senator Manchin. Supporting our mothers, children, and young families in West Virginia is crucial, especially during these challenging and difficult times that we are currently facing. This funding will support our state health agencies in providing direct and specific care in the home when it's needed the most. We must continue to be responsive to the needs of West Virginians and make services accessible when logistical challenges create roadblocks. I know how important family is to the people of our state, and I will continue to advocate for accessible care on behalf of our mothers, children, infants, and families,said Senator Capito. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z