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.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-looks-back-at-2018,VIDEO: Capito Looks Back at 2018,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.28.18 VIDEO: Capito Looks Back at 2018 CHARLESTON, W.Va. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today released a video highlighting various events from 2018 and her work for West Virginians during the past year. Click here or the image above to watch the video. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-wishes-west-virginians-happy-holidays-2018,VIDEO: Capito Wishes West Virginians Happy Holidays,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.24.18 VIDEO: Capito Wishes West Virginians Happy Holidays CHARLESTON, W.Va. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today released a video message ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays. Click here or the image above to watch the video.Click here to download the video. Full video transcript included below: Hi everyone! I dont know about you, but the holidays are always a reflective time for me. A time to look back on the past year and count the extraordinary blessings in my life. I am fortunate to have a supportive family around me, to have my health, to represent West Virginia in the United States Senate, to live in the greatest country in the world, and to be part of a state and a community that is as special and as full of promise as ours. This holiday season, I wish you all the blessings of a peaceful and joyous Christmas. Charlie and I, along with our entire familyincluding my grandchildrenhope that you and your loved ones have a very happy holiday season. And best wishes for a healthy and prosperous 2019! # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-votes-against-continuing-resolution-,Manchin Votes Against Continuing Resolution,2018-12-21,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 21, 2018 Manchin Votes Against Continuing Resolution Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement after voting against the continuing resolution because it guts the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund and doesn't include a fix for miners' pensions. Today, I voted against the continuing resolution because it leaves behind our coal mining families. This bill guts the funding source for the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund by 55% and doesn't include a much-needed pension solution for our miners. The Black Lung Disability Trust Fund is a lifeline for more than 25,000 sick and dying miners and their dependents. Not to mention that today, more and more miners are being diagnosed with Black Lung Disease which means funding is needed now more than ever. And unless Congress acts immediately, this already indebted trust fund will be more than $15 billion in debt by 2050. We can't lose this fight today because it only gets harder to save these miners. To make matters worse, this continuing resolution doesn't include a fix for our coal miners' pensions. Without this fix, over 26,000 retired miners and widows in West Virginia will lose their modest pensions. These checks average less than $600 a month and are relied upon to make ends meet. It's a sad day in America when partisan politics penalize the people who did the most for this country andI will not stop until these failures of leadership are fixed. Governing this way is embarrassing for both Democrats and Republicans. Today marks the third time Congress has voted for a short term solution to partially fund FY2019 instead of doing the hard work of creating a budget the American people can be proud of. Earlier this week, I allowed a clean CR to proceed because I was told it was the only thing that could pass and I got assurances that the cuts to the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund funding stream would be stopped. Clearly, that plan is clearly no longer credible. I was also told that miners' pensions would be handled as soon as we got back. So I am taking a stand for our miners today. Let me be perfectly clear: I support funding the border wall. I have voted for every border wall funding bill that has come before the Senate from $1.6 to $46 billion, and I will continue to support border wall funding. However, a bill that funds border security but devastates our brave mining families is a bad bill, and there is no rational reason we can't have both - border security and keeping our promise to miners. That is what I will continue to fight and vote for."" ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-24-million-to-repair-damaged-roadways,"Capito, Manchin Announce $2.4 Million to Repair Damaged Roadways",2018-12-20,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.20.18 Capito, Manchin Announce $2.4 Million to Repair Damaged Roadways Funding will repair roads in Wayne, Wetzel counties WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chair of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $2,492,275 for West Virginia through the Federal Emergency Management Agencys (FEMA) Public Assistance grant program. Funding will assist the West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) with repairs to roadways in Wayne and Wetzel counties that were damaged as a result of storms in February 2018. The aftermath of storms can have a devastating impact on the roads West Virginians depend on to get to work and provide for their families, Senator Capito said. As communities pull themselves up after flooding, it is critical that state and federal partners work with them to repair damaged infrastructure and ensure the safety of West Virginians. As chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I will continue to work to ensure West Virginia communities and communities across America have the resources they need to recover from natural disasters."" Our state has survived many weather-related disasters, which have unfortunately taken a toll on our roadways across West Virginia. This funding will help repair and clear roadways that have been damaged by severe storms, flooding, mudslides, and landslides for safer travel. Im glad that the WV Division of Highways have received these grants and as a member of the Appropriations committee, I will continue to seek similar funding for West Virginia in the future, Senator Manchin said. Individual awards listed below: WVDOH District 2 - $1,311,207 for repairs in Wayne County. WVDOH District 6 - $1,181,068 for repairs in Wetzel County. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-lifts-hold-on-fcc-nominee-after-securing-assurances-for-mobile-broadband-funding-for-west-virginia-,Manchin Lifts Hold on FCC Nominee After Securing Assurances for Mobile Broadband Funding for West Virginia,2018-12-20,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 20, 2018 Manchin Lifts Hold on FCC Nominee After Securing Assurances for Mobile Broadband Funding for West Virginia Washington, D.C. Yesterday, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) lifted his hold on Federal Communications Commission (FCC) nominee Brendan Carr after receiving a firm commitment from Chairman Ajit Pai that the FCC's Mobility Fund Phase II program would be moving forward as quickly as possible with a provision that will ensure this critical $4.5 billion for mobile broadband funding is targeted toward areas like West Virginia that face higher deployment costs due to challenging topography. The Mobility Fund Phase II will make up to $4.53 billion in support available over 10 years to primarily rural areas that lack unsubsidized 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) service. Senator Manchin placed the hold on Carr's nomination last week following the FCC's announcement that they were putting the Mobility Fund Phase II on hold indefinitely to investigate reports that the broadband connectivity maps that broadband providers submitted to the FCC were inaccurate, something that Senator Manchin has said from the beginning. In a letter, Pai assured Senator Manchin that the investigation will be completed in a thorough, yet expeditious manner and that the reverse auction to distribute the $4.5 billion will include a terrain factor, something Senator Manchin fought for over the past three years so that places like West Virginia that are the hardest and most expensive to serve will have a fair chance at receiving this money. Earlier this year, Senator Manchin's provision encouraging the FCC to take this action was adopted by the Senate Appropriations Committee with bipartisan support. Chairman Pai said in part: I have publicly committed to ensuring a terrain factor is included because it is essential to ensure that places like West Virginia that are well known for challenging and rugged terrain will receive additional support. This way, we will ensure that the auction will not prioritize less expensive networks serving flatter terrain and will level the playing field for all bidders. I am pleased that I was able to secure this commitment from Chairman Pai on Mobility Fund Phase II, Senator Manchin said. This mobile broadband funding is critical and will bring us one step closer to bridging the digital divide in West Virginia. All Americans, no matter their area code, deserve to have access to high speed, reliable internet service, and I look forward to continuing to work with Chairman Pai and Commissioner Carr to make this a reality To read Chairman Pai's letter to Senator Manchin click here ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-peters-introduce-bill-to-improve-accessibility-of-information-on-using-composites-in-infrastructure,"Capito, Peters Introduce Bill to Improve Accessibility of Information on Using Composites in Infrastructure",2018-12-19,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.19.18 Capito, Peters Introduce Bill to Improve Accessibility of Information on Using Composites in Infrastructure Legislation would help increase sustainability, encourage innovation, lower costs WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) yesterday introduced legislation to establish a design data clearinghouse to disseminate existing guidelines and standards for using composite materials in infrastructure projects. It would direct the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop a data clearinghouse to disseminate guidance on composite technology in sustainable infrastructure. The bill would also direct NISTin consultation with the National Science Foundation (NSF)to carry out a four-year pilot program to assist in assessing the feasibility of adopting composite technology. Infrastructure remains a top bipartisan priority; and as we continue working to improve, rebuild, and grow Americas infrastructure, its important that we make sure individuals and businesses have the information they need to get it right. That includes information on using composites in infrastructure projectssomething that would help encourage both sustainability and innovation in construction, as well as help lower costs on a wide range of critical projects. Our legislation would also help make the case for using composites in various projects with the help of institutions like our very own West Virginia University, Senator Capito said. We need an infrastructure strategy that rebuilds our roads, bridges and ports so that they can better serve taxpayers in the future, said Senator Peters, ranking member on the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety and Security. Utilizing state-of-the-art composite technologies will ensure our infrastructure upgrades are done effectively and efficiently. Im pleased to join Senator Capito in introducing bipartisan legislation that will encourage composite technologies in infrastructure improvements in Michigan and across the country. Instead of ripping and replacing our deteriorated infrastructure, polymer composites can economically rehabilitate the infrastructure at a fraction of the cost of replacement. Fiber reinforced polymer composites can safely extend the life of existing structures without corrosion or rot, said Hota GangaRao, director of the Constructed Facilities Center at West Virginia University and a recognized expert on composites in construction. The biggest barriers to the expanded use of composites are the lack of standards and codes to permit safe, biddable designs and a shortage of experience in designing, specifying, installing and evaluating polymer composite structures or hybrids that combine composites with in-service structural materials such as steel, concrete or timber. This bill provides a proven conduit to bring together industry, government and academia to address these practical shortcomings in a collaborative environment. The United States produces more carbon fiber than any other nation (31 percent) and is home to two of the top five leaders when it comes to glass fiber production. U.S. composite exports are expected to grow at a rate of 4.2 percent in 2017 and 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. In February 2017, NIST released the Road Mapping Workshop on Overcoming Barriers to Adoption of Composites in Sustainable Infrastructure. NIST found that the top three barriers for composite adoption were: training and education, codes and standards, and durability and service life prediction. As a result, NIST identified three activities or tasks to overcome these barriers: durability testing, design data clearinghouse, and education and training. By establishing a design data clearinghouse to disseminate existing guidelines and standards for using composite materials in infrastructure projects, the bill introduced by Senator Capito and Peters will help eliminate one of the barriers NIST identified and enable more individuals and businesses to take advantage of the opportunities created by composites. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-leads-bicameral-letter-urging-leadership-to-include-miners-priorities-in-end-of-year-legislation-,Manchin Leads Bicameral Letter Urging Leadership to Include Miners' Priorities in End of Year Legislation,2018-12-19,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 19, 2018 Manchin Leads Bicameral Letter Urging Leadership to Include Miners' Priorities in End of Year Legislation Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today led a bicameral group of Senators and Representatives continuing to urge Congressional leadership to include in end-of-year legislation an extension of the coal excise tax at current levels for the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund, the addition of orphan miners from 2018 bankruptcies into the Coal Act, and a permanent fix to ensure the solvency of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) 1974 Pension Plan. Our nation's coal miners made a commitment to provide our nation with the energy we needed to power our nation to prosperity and they risked their health and lives to do so. Now is not the time to pull back on funding or abandon our miners in their hour of need. It is time for us to keep our full promise to them and ensure their benefits are not lost, they said in part. Senator Manchin was joined by Senators Mark Warner (D-VA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Doug Jones (D-AL), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Representatives Matt Cartwright, Conor Lamb, Mike Doyle, Marcia Fudge, Wm. Lacy Clay, Bennie Thompson and Brenda Lawrence. Read the full letter below or click here: Dear Leader McConnell, Leader Schumer, Speaker Ryan and Leader Pelosi: We write to ask you to include key assistance for our nation's miners in end-of-year legislation. Our nation's coal miners have done the heavy lifting for our country and, yet, they continually are burdened with fighting for the health care and retirement benefits they have earned over lifetimes of back-breaking work. We urge you to include an extension of the coal excise tax for the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund, the addition of orphan miners from 2018 bankruptcies into the Coal Act, and a permanent fix to ensure the solvency of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) 1974 Pension Plan. More than 25,000 coal miners and their dependents rely on the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund to pay for critical medical treatment and basic expenses. These miners dedicated years to working in the coal mines, providing energy for our nation, and are now facing the devastation of coal workers' pneumoconiosis, or black lung disease, caused by inhaling coal mine dust. After their years of service, it is our responsibility to ensure that they have the care and support that they need. Black lung is a devastating disease. One pulmonologist described it as suffocating while alive. And it is only getting worse. We are seeing more and more cases of black lung particularly the worst form of the disease and we are seeing it in younger and younger miners who have spent less time in the mines. That is why we urge you to extend the coal excise tax at current levels before the end of the year. This important tax, which is set to decrease by 55% without Congressional action, funds the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund. If the tax is not extended, this already indebted Trust Fund could face borrowing costs of more than $15 billion by 2050. Coal company bankruptcies continue to devastate our coal communities, often leaving coal miners without the benefits they were promised. Due to 2018 coal company bankruptcies, there are approximately 1,200 miners and dependents who will be left without health care in the coming months. It is imperative that Congress act to ensure these coal miners' health benefits are protected. And, we continue to seek a fix to the UMWA 1974 Pension Plan crisis this fund was well-managed but, as a result of the 2008 financial crisis and ongoing coal bankruptcies, our nation's retired miners are at risk of losing their hard-earned pension benefits. In the last two years alone contributions have dropped by more than $100 million, leaving less than $25 million per year still coming in to the Plan. And, by no fault of their own, these miners are now at risk of losing the modest pensions they earned. While the average UMWA pension is less than $600 per month, these benefits are critical to so many miners and their families. We must protect the pensions of these 87,000 current beneficiaries and 20,000 more whose pensions have vested. If the UMWA 1974 Pension Plan collapses beneficiaries and their dependents will be dropped into the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), destroying that agency and requiring the American taxpayer to foot the bill. The UMWA 1974 Plan actuaries currently expect the Plan to become insolvent in the 2022-2023 time-frame, however any market downturn will rapidly accelerate insolvency. The time to act is now. Our nation's coal miners made a commitment to provide our nation with the energy we needed to power our nation to prosperity and they risked their health and lives to do so. Now is not the time to pull back on funding or abandon our miners in their hour of need. It is time for us to keep our full promise to them and ensure their benefits are not lost. Our miners are the hardest working people in America. We look forward to working with you to ensure all of these benefits are secured and protected for our nation's miners. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-leads-senate-colleagues-in-urging-president-trump-to-condemn-texas-v-us-decision-,Manchin Leads Senate Colleagues in Urging President Trump to Condemn Texas v. U.S. Decision,2018-12-19,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 19, 2018 Manchin Leads Senate Colleagues in Urging President Trump to Condemn Texas v. U.S. Decision Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today led a group of Senators in calling on President Trump to condemn the recent decision in Texas v. United States which declared the Affordable Care Act (ACA) unconstitutional. If the decision stands, 20 million Americans will be left without the health insurance they rely on. The 133 million Americans and 800,000 West Virginians with a pre-existing condition will be at risk of losing their access to health insurance and millions of families across the country will see healthcare costs rise. If it is allowed to stand, the human costs of this decision will be profound. The Senators said in part, It is not too late for you to condemn this decision by requesting a stay and taking steps to defend the Affordable Care Act moving forward. The ACA is, quite simply, the law of the land, and it is your Administration's duty to defend it. Further, even among the numerous, failed attempts to repeal the ACA, there was widespread recognition that simply repealing the law without a replacement would be too devastating to American families and to our economy to fathom. Yet that is exactly what this ruling, if upheld, would do. Senator Manchin was joined by Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Doug Jones (D-AL), Tom Carper (D-DE), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Tom Udall (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Chris Coons (D-DE), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tina Smith (D-MN), Jon Tester (D-MT), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Joe Donnelly (D-IN), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Bob Casey (D-PA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Gary Peters (D-MI), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Angus King (I-ME), Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL). Read the full letter below or click here: Dear President Trump: We are writing to express our serious concerns with the December 14th decision by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas in the matter of Texas v. United States and to reiterate our strong objection to the Department of Justice's refusal to defend the law of the land. Judge O'Connor's decision wrongly declares the individual mandate unconstitutional and inseverable from the remainder of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This decision is not just legally unsound, itis inhumane and cruel. If the ruling stands, nearly every American's health care will be affected. The 20 million people who receive insurance coverage through the ACA will be left without the coverage they desperately need. Furthermore, 133 million Americans with pre-existing conditions will be at risk of losing access to treatment. And millions of families, women, seniors, and people with low incomes will see their health care costs rise. It is no exaggeration to say that, if upheld, this decision is a matter of life and death to many Americans. We urge you to reverse course and direct the Department of Justice to defend the law of the land and pursue a stay of this decision. It is not too late for you to condemn this decision by requesting a stay and taking steps to defend the Affordable Care Act moving forward. The ACA is, quite simply, the law of the land, and it is your Administration's duty to defend it. Further, even among the numerous, failed attempts to repeal the ACA, there was widespread recognition that simply repealing the law without a replacement would be too devastating to American families and to our economy to fathom. Yet that is exactly what this ruling, if upheld, would do. The human cost of this decision is profound. As mentioned above, tens of millions of Americans covered in the law's Health Insurance Marketplaces and by Medicaid expansion will lose their insurance, and tens of millions more with health conditions from cancer to heart disease, pregnant women, and people with costly prescriptions could lose access to care or have to pay significantly more for it. It is also alarming that in the midst of the devastating opioid epidemic, millions of Americans suffering from substance use disorders would lose access to the treatment that they need to recover. But it does not stop there. Health care makes up over one-sixth of our economy: the uncertainty for health care providers created by the dramatic upheaval that this decision will inevitably cause will have a substantial economic impact on families, rural hospitals and clinics, businesses, state governments, and more. Americans need you to work with us to defend their access to quality, affordable health care. We can work together to improve our health care system and reduce costs, but we must not let this flawed court decision stand and devastate millions of American families both physically and financially. The fight for our health care in the case of Texas v. United States is not over. We urge you and the DOJ to immediately request a stay of this order and to uphold the rule of law by defending the constitutionality of current law. Millions of Americans are relying on you. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1511,McKinley Nominates 17 Students to Military Academies,2018-12-18,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,David McKinley,M001180,mckinley.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-W.Va.) has nominated 17 West Virginia students to United States service academies. Nomination by a Member of Congress is the first step in the process toward appointment to a military academy. share: f t Rep. David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-W.Va.) has nominated 17 West Virginia students to United States service academies. Nomination by a Member of Congress is the first step in the process toward appointment to a military academy. These young men and women will be the next generation of leaders in West Virginia, said McKinley. They have earned their nomination through hard work, achievement and good character, demonstrated in the classroom, the athletic field and their community. Nominating deserving young people for the opportunity of a lifetime is one of the best parts of my job representing the First District, said McKinley. I am proud to endorse these students in the first step towards appointment at America's service academies. The following students were nominated by Rep. McKinley based on their academic performance, extracurricular activity, service to their communities, and personal recommendations: Victoria Childs (Albright) attends University High School. She is an all-state musician in both flute and piccolo and sings in the choir. She also participates in Junior ROTC. Nominated to U.S. Naval Academy Nicholas DeFazio (Wheeling) attends Wheeling Park High School and ranks in the top 10% of his class. He is a member of the varsity football and swimming teams and is active in the Future Business Leaders of America. Nominated to U.S. Naval Academy Lian Dunlevy (Westover) attends Morgantown High School where he ranks in the top 1% of his class. He is enrolled in a college-level engineering course at WVU and interned full time at NASA IV&V in Fairmont. He is also an award-winning competitive shooter. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy and U.S. Naval Academy Owen Gainer (Wheeling) attends the Air Force Academy Prep School and graduated from Wheeling Central Catholic last spring. He served as a class officer all four years at Central, attended Boy's State and is active in the community. He was an all-conference basketball player at Central. Nominated to U.S. Air Force Academy Elle Greco (Weirton) attends The Linsly School in Wheeling. She has served as a student body officer and participated in Rhododendron Girls State. She is a four-year member of the cheerleading squad. Nominated to U.S. Air Force Academy Hank Herald (Morgantown) attends Morgantown High School where he is a member of the National Honor Society. He is a four-year member of the basketball team and has also played lacrosse and football. Nominated to U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Naval Academy Lilah Kimble (Bridgeport) attends Bridgeport High School where she is a member of the National Honor Society. She serves as Vice President of the student body and was recognized as Outstanding Citizen at Rhododendron Girls State. She runs cross country and is an active volunteer with her church. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy and U.S. Naval Academy Tyler Komorowski (Weirton) attends Weir High where he is in the top 5% of his class. He is President of the National Honor Society and serves as an officer in student government. He was named first-team all-state in both football and baseball. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy David Middleton (Parkersburg) attends Fork Union Military Academy in Virginia. He holds leadership positions in his class and is completing his Eagle Scout. He served as captain of the wrestling and lacrosse teams. Nominated to U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Military Academy Mitchell Miller (Parkersburg) attends Wood County Christian School where he serves as President of the National Christian Honor Society. He is a member of the varsity basketball team and is also an award-winning guitarist. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy and U.S. Naval Academy Braeden Pauley (Morgantown) attends University High School and is a member of the National Honor Society. He served as captain of the varsity wrestling squad and coaches youth wrestlers. Nominated to U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Military Academy Stephen Snyder (Triadelphia) attends The Linsly School in Wheeling. He was selected for leadership positions as House Leader and School Prefect. He serves as captain of the varsity football team. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy Emily Stone (Grafton) attends Grafton High School where she ranks in the top 10% of her class. She is Co-President of the Future Business Leaders of America club, plays in the marching band, and is a member of the National Honor Society. Nominated to U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Air Force Academy Alexis Summers (Vienna) attends Parkersburg High School where she ranks in the top 5% of her class. She is a four-year member of the varsity softball team, serves as Vice President of her class, and is a member of the National Honor Society. Nominated to U.S. Naval Academy Trey Toland (Mannington) is a freshman at Fairmont State and graduated from North Marion High School last spring. He served in a number of leadership roles in student government and participated in a summer STEM program at the Naval Academy. He was also a four-year letterman on the North Marion football and tennis teams. Nominated to U.S. Naval Academy Margaret Warner (Morgantown) attends University High School where she ranks in the top 1% of her class. She serves as student body President and attended Rhododendron Girls State. She is a state qualifier in gymnastics and was named team captain. Nominated to U.S. Air Force Academy Katherene Welsh (Marshall County) attends Munich International School in Germany. She received the Latin Gold Medal for her score on the National Language Exam. She runs track and cross country and plays field hockey. Nominated to U.S. Naval Academy -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-votes-for-criminal-justice-reform-,Manchin Votes for Criminal Justice Reform,2018-12-18,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 18, 2018 Manchin Votes for Criminal Justice Reform Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today voted for the First Step Act, the bipartisan legislation supported by President Trump to reform the criminal justice system. I'm proud the Senate was able to come together in a bipartisan way to pass common sense criminal justice and sentencing reform. The revised First Step Act offers a second chance for nonviolent offenders and by focusing on the skills necessary for people to stay out of prison it should reduce incarceration rates. This bill is an important step towards making our communities safer and our justice system fairer, Senator Manchin said. I'm pleased the Gun Locker bill, which I lead with Senator Toomey, was included. This legislation requires the Bureau of Prisons to allow a correctional officer at a federal prison or correctional institution to carry their concealed firearm on BOP premises outside the security perimeter and store the firearm outside the security perimeter in a secure storage area or in a vehicle lockbox. Ensuring our correctional officers can commute to and from work without fear for their safety. However, I'm disappointed my bill the Clean Start Act was not included. I'll continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass the Clean Start Act to allow people with a federal felony or misdemeanor conviction for a past nonviolent crime committed as a result of drug addiction an opportunity to have their criminal record sealed after undergoing comprehensive addiction treatment and demonstrating a commitment to their recovery. First Step Act is supported by President Trump, the Fraternal Order of Police, the National District Attorneys Association and the American Civil Liberties Union. The bill would: Sentencing Reforms Expand the Safety Valve: Allow judges to sentence below the mandatory minimum for qualified low-level nonviolent drug offenders who cooperate with the government. Retroactive Application of Fair Sentencing Act (FSA): Allow individuals still serving sentences under the pre-FSA 100-to-1 crack-powder sentencing disparity to petition for sentence reductions. Reform Unfair Two-Strikes and Three-Strikes Laws: Reduce the 2nd strike mandatory minimum of 20 years to 15 years, and reduce the 3rd strike mandatory minimum of life in prison to 25 years. Eliminate 924(c) stacking: Ensure that sentencing enhancements for repeat offenses apply only to true repeat offenders by clarifying enhancements cannot unfairly be stacked, i.e., applied to conduct within the same indictment. Prison Reforms Good Time Credit Fix: Revise the good-time credit law to accurately reflect congressional intent by allowing all federal prisoners to earn 54 days of credit per year, rather than 47 days. New Earned Time Credit: For every 30 days of recidivism-reduction programming or productive activities an eligible prisoner completes, the prisoner will earn 10 days of time credit (plus five additional days for lower risk prisoners) towards early placement in a halfway house, home confinement, or up to one year of supervised release. Independent Review Committee: Establish an Independent Review Committee of outside experts to assist in developing, reviewing, and validating the risk and needs assessment system. Pregnant Prisoners and Feminine Healthcare Products: Prohibit shackling pregnant prisoners and requires healthcare products be provided to incarcerated women. Facilitates Family Contact: Require prisoners be placed within 500 driving miles of their home, and provides additional phone, video conferencing and visitation privileges. Opioid Treatment: Expand evidence-based opioid and heroin abuse treatment for inmates. Strengthen Compassionate Release: Expand compassionate release under the Second Chance Act and expedite and improve transparency in compassionate release applications. Effectively Ends Federal Juvenile Solitary Confinement. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-op-ed-highlights-ways-to-encourage-entrepreneurship-innovation-in-west-virginia,"Capito Op-Ed Highlights Ways to Encourage Entrepreneurship, Innovation in West Virginia",2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.18 Capito Op-Ed Highlights Ways to Encourage Entrepreneurship, Innovation in West Virginia WASHINGTON, D.C. In an op-ed for The Dominion Post, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) highlighted efforts in West Virginia to spur economic growth, encourage entrepreneurship, and drive innovation, as well as the importance of continuing and strengthening those efforts. Future economic growth is contingent upon fostering an environment that promotes entrepreneurship, and I am committed to helping innovative startups access critical federal research dollars that will help them make their ideas and visions realities. We must successfully work to create an environment that makes our state attractive for startups to stay and grow here, Senator Capito wrote. The full op-ed is available here and below. Encouraging Entrepreneurship, Innovation in the Mountain StateBy: U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) The Dominion PostDecember 16, 2018 As I travel across West Virginia, its clear the economic climate is improving here, and there are many reasons to be optimistic about our states future. Reforming our outdated tax code and rolling back burdensome regulations, as well as other pro-growth measures, have proven to be a winning combination for workers, small businesses, and economic growth, and they have encouraged an environment thats putting West Virginia on a path to a brighter future. Thats exactly the direction our state needs to be headed in, and we are well on our way. However, its critical that we continue to build on the momentum weve created. Last month, two native sons of West Virginia and technology thought leaders, announced significant contributions to two of our states universities, West Virginia University and Marshall University. Working closely with the leaders of these institutionsincluding WVU President Gordon Gee and Marshall President Dr. Jerry Gilbertits my hope that these gifts of money and time catalyze the beginning of a new era of innovation for the Mountain State. I was present for Charleston native and former CEO and chairman of Cisco Systems, Inc. John Chambers announcement of a generous gift to WVUs College of Business and Economics. His donation, along with his personal time commitment, will result in the creation of a new business accelerator called Startup West Virginia and provide seed capital for companies launched there. Similarly, Huntington native and CEO of Intuit Brad Smith and his wife, Alys, made a multi-million dollar gift to support the redesign, reorganization, and re-energizing of Marshalls College of Business. This gift will help build new facilities and provide resources to support innovation and redefine the business schools curriculum. By investing in our universities and creating and expanding programs to include more applicablecurriculums focused on innovation and entrepreneurship, we can bring out the creative and entrepreneurial spirit that lives inside our students. Its clear that collaboration among multiple sectors and industries is working. And, its providing invaluable experience for the next generation of workers and entrepreneurs. It also has the potential to transform our economy and encourage more startups throughout the state. Future economic growth is contingent upon fostering an environment that promotes entrepreneurship, and I am committed to helping innovative startups access critical federal research dollars that will help them make their ideas and visions realities. We must successfully work to create an environment that makes our state attractive for startups to stay and grow here. That is exactly what these two examples at WVU and Marshall are meant to do: provide access to the education and tools that will prepare our next generation of entrepreneurs and establish a supportive environment that allows innovative startups to exist and thrive. In the Senate, Ive focused on a variety efforts to contribute to this pro-entrepreneurial, pro-growth environmenttwo in particular that I believe can be instrumental in cultivating, attracting, and retaining innovative talent in West Virginia. Those areas are access to both broadband and capital. Take connectivity for example. We can have the most skilled workforce and innovative ideas in the world, but if we dont have connectivity, were limiting our economic potential. Thats exactly why I have been working to advance solutions that will help close the digital divide in our state, something my Capito Connect plan has been successful in achieving since I launched the program in 2015. Another critical component to our success is ensuring that those with new and innovative ideas have access to capital that will allow them to stay in West Virginia. That is why I am a strong proponent of the Opportunity Zone program, a provision included in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Through Opportunity Zones, we can help drive investment from around the country into new and existing innovative companies in the Mountain Stateenabling them to stay, grow, and create more jobs here at home. Im committed to working with our universities, businesses, and other local leaders to create even more opportunities to move our state forward. So much good work is already being done to build a strong workforce, grow the economy, and attract new investments. Lets keep the momentum going! # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1510,McKinley Statement on Obamacare Court Ruling,2018-12-15,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,David McKinley,M001180,mckinley.house.gov,,,legacy,"McKinley Statement on Obamacare Court Ruling f t # e Washington, December 15, 2018 Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-WV) issued the following statement regarding a ruling by a Federal court in Texas that declared Obamacare unconstitutional: This decision should spur Congress into action to reform health care on a bipartisan basis. With divided government we have a chance to improve affordability, ensure access to care, address the cost of prescription drugs, and protect coverage for people with pre-existing conditions. share: f t Washington, DC Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-WV) issued the following statement regarding a ruling by a Federal court in Texas that declared Obamacare unconstitutional: This decision should spur Congress into action to reform health care on a bipartisan basis. With divided government we have a chance to improve affordability, ensure access to care, address the cost of prescription drugs, and protect coverage for people with pre-existing conditions. This ruling will not have any immediate impact on premiums or coverage for the coming year and will likely be appealed. In the meantime, Republicans and Democrats alike should take this opportunity to put aside the partisan squabbling and enact reforms that will help people get affordable and quality health care. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/klobuchar-capito-bipartisan-legislation-to-measure-the-economic-impact-of_broadband-passes-senate,"Klobuchar, Capito Bipartisan Legislation to Measure the Economic Impact of Broadband Passes Senate",2018-12-14,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,,0,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/klobuchar-capito-legislation-to-measure-economic-impact-of_broadband-passes-senate,"Klobuchar, Capito Legislation to Measure Economic Impact of Broadband Passes Senate",2018-12-14,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.18 Klobuchar, Capito Legislation to Measure Economic Impact of Broadband Passes Senate WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), co-chairs of the Senate Broadband Caucus, announced that the Measuring the Economic Impact of Broadband Act has passed the Senate. While the federal government measures the economic impact of many industries, it does not produce current, reliable statistics on the economic impact of broadband on the U.S. economy. Accurate, reliable data on the economic impact of broadband is a valuable tool for policymakers and business leaders, and many research institutions, state broadband offices, and trade associations have highlighted the need for this data. The Measuring the Economic Impact of Broadband Act would require the Bureau of Economic Analysis to conduct a study of the effects of broadband deployment and adoption on the U.S. economy. Broadband connectivity has the power to unleash jobs and fuel economic growth throughout the country, especially in rural areas like West Virginia. This legislation will provide the data needed to measure the benefits of broadband accessibility and the importance of investing in critical broadband infrastructure. Im proud to join with my partner on the Senate Broadband Caucus to introduce a bill that will help bridge the digital divide in the areas that need it most, Senator Capito said. Broadband is a critical force for creating jobs, leveling the playing field, and increasing opportunity, Senator Klobuchar said. Our bipartisan legislation will help provide us with the reliable, publicly available economic data we need to make informed decisions about expanding broadband, connecting our communities, and keeping us competitive in an increasingly digital world. In conducting this analysis, the secretary will consider job creation, business headcount, online commerce, income, education and distance learning, telehealth, telework, agriculture, population growth, population density, broadband speed, and geography. The secretary may consult representatives of business, including rural and urban internet service providers and telecommunications infrastructure providers; state, local, and Tribal government agencies; and consumer and community organizations. Other original co-sponsors of the bill include Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), and John Boozman (R-Ark.), the other co-chairs of the Senate Broadband Caucus, and Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.). This legislation is supported by Connected Nation, NTCA The Rural Broadband Association, CTIA, WIA The Wireless Infrastructure Association, ITTA The Voice of Americas Broadband Providers and CCIA. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-capito-bill-to-address-rising-maternal-mortality-rates,Senate Passes Capito Bill to Address Rising Maternal Mortality Rates,2018-12-14,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.18 Senate Passes Capito Bill to Address Rising Maternal Mortality Rates Legislation now heads to the presidents desk for his signature WASHINGTON, D.C. The Senate yesterday evening unanimously passed the Maternal Mortality Accountability Act, legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) to help examine and combat the ongoing maternal mortality crisis in the United States. The bipartisan legislation she introduced with U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) now heads to President Trump to be signed into law. Maternal mortality rates have been rising dramatically across the country, and we need to do more to reverse that, Senator Capito said. This legislation will help us figure out what is causing this startling trend and how we can better prevent the same situations from happening in the future. Im so glad that my Senate colleagues also recognize the importance of addressing this issue and passed our legislation with unanimous support. This brings us another step closer to strengthening our efforts to protect these mothers, and I look forward to the president signing it into law. Unlike any other industrial country in the world, the maternal death rate in the United States is on the rise. Across the country, maternal mortality rates increased by an alarming 26 percent from 2000 to 2014. Senator Capitos bipartisan bill will strengthen on-the-ground resources to combat this growing crisis by expanding maternal mortality review committees that study and address the causes of maternal death cases and work to increase the number of safe and successful pregnancies. While West Virginia has had a Maternal Mortality Review Panel since 2008, such panels or committees currently do not exist in more than 20 states. All momsno matter where they live, no matter what they can or cant afford deserve the vital pregnancy and postpartum care they need to deliver a healthy future for themselves and their babies. Every maternal death is unspeakably tragic, but the estimated 60 percent of maternal deaths in the U.S. that could be prevented with the proper care should be completely unacceptable to each and every one of us, said Heidi Murkoff, author of What to Expect When Youre Expecting and founder of the What to Expect Foundation and WhatToExpect.com. The health and wellbeing of our future depends on the health and wellbeing of our moms, and thats not a partisan issue thats a fundamental human issue. Thats why I applaud the bipartisan efforts of my fellow moms, Senators Heitkamp and Capito in introducing the Maternal Mortality Accountability Act. When it comes to maternity care, there should be no red moms or blue moms, red babies or blue babies our goal must always be healthy moms, healthy babies, and a healthy future. The bill is supported by over 80 national organizations including the American Hospital Association, the American Medical Association, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the Preeclampsia Foundation, and the March of Dimes. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-obamacare-ruling,Manchin Statement on Obamacare Ruling,2018-12-14,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 14, 2018 Manchin Statement on Obamacare Ruling WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today issued the following statement on the decision by a federal judge in Texas that Obamacare must be thrown out. This misguided and inhumane ruling will kick millions of Americans and tens of thousands of West Virginians off of their health insurance. West Virginians with pre-existing conditions will be at risk of losing their health insurance. And the thousands of West Virginians who gained health insurance through the Medicaid expansion will no longer qualify. This ruling is just plain wrong. I look forward to its appeal to a higher court, and I intend to fight to ensure that the Senate has an opportunity to intervene to defend these critical health safeguards. I urge West Virginia's Attorney General to withdraw from this dangerous lawsuit on behalf of the tens of thousands of West Virginians who will be harmed. Today's ruling is yet another example of why the Senate must come together to pass bipartisan legislation that makes commonsense fixes to our current system. Protecting West Virginians healthcare has always been my top priority and I will continue to fight for every West Virginian's access to quality, affordable health insurance. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-agriculture-secretary-perdue-announce-new-rural-broadband-program,"Capito, Agriculture Secretary Perdue Announce New Rural Broadband Program",2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.13.18 Capito, Agriculture Secretary Perdue Announce New Rural Broadband Program Initiative will help encourage high-speed internet e-connectivity in rural communities WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today joined Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue in announcing that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is offering up to $600 million in loans and grants to help build broadband infrastructure in rural America. Telecommunications companies, rural electric cooperatives and utilities, internet service providers and municipalities may apply to USDAs new program for funding to connect rural areas that currently have insufficient broadband service. USDA Rural Development is the primary agency delivering the program, with assistance from other federal partners. As a leader on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Capito helped secure funds in the FY2018 budget for this broadband pilot program, known as the ReConnect Program. Through her Capito Connect initiative, Senator Capito has made improving connectivity and closing the digital divide in West Virginia a top priority and has worked to advance efforts and deliver resources to support programs like the ReConnect Program. Connectivity is essential for individuals, families, students, businesses, and communities to succeed. Without access to reliable and affordable high-speed internet, rural communities and rural states like West Virginia are being left behind when it comes to education, health care, job creation and retention, and overall economic potential, Senator Capito said. Programs like this one and other efforts Ive been working to promote through my Capito Connect initiative can help us close the digital divide, improve the lives of those living in our rural communities, and grow and diversify our economy. Thats exactly why I worked hard to ensure funding for the ReConnect Program was included in the FY2018 funding agreement and will continue to push for similar resources. Im excited Secretary Perdue asked me to be part of this announcement, and I appreciate how he, President Trump, and the entire administration are working to make rural America and rural broadband such priorities. High-speed internet e-Connectivity is a necessity, not an amenity, vital for quality of life and economic opportunity, so we hope that today rural communities kick-off their rural broadband project planning, Secretary Perdue said. Under the leadership of President Trump, USDA has worked to understand the true needs of rural communities facing this challenge so we can be strong partners to create high-speed, reliable broadband e-Connectivity. USDA will make available approximately $200 million for grants (applications due to USDA by April 29), as well as $200 million for loan and grant combinations (applications due May 29), and $200 million for low-interest loans (applications due by June 28). Projects funded through this initiative must serve communities with fewer than 20,000 people with no broadband service or where service is slower than 10 megabits per second (mbps) download and 1 mbps upload. Approved projects must create access speeds of at least 25 mbps upload and 3 mbps download. Priority will be awarded for projects that propose to deliver higher-capacity connections to rural homes, businesses, and farms. USDA seeks to stretch these funds as far as possible by leveraging existing networks and systems without overbuilding existing services greater than 10/1 mpbs. The goal is to connect rural communities to support agricultural production and marketing, e-Commerce, health care, and education. Previous research by USDA has demonstrated that high-capacity broadband is critical to all aspects of rural prosperity, including the ability to grow and attract businesses, retain and develop talent, and maintain rural quality of life. To help potential applicants with the application process, USDA has created a resource portal at reconnect.usda.gov, and the department is holding online webinars and regional in-person workshops. The regional workshops will be held in southeastern Alabama; northcentral Oregon; Newton, Kansas; Washington, Pennsylvania; Gila River, Arizona; and Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. The first technical assistance webinar will be held on Tuesday, December 18. The full list of upcoming public webinars and workshops can be found at the ReConnect Programs resource portal at reconnect.usda.gov. In April 2017, President Donald J. Trump established the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity to identify legislative, regulatory and policy changes that could promote agriculture and prosperity in rural communities. In January 2018, Secretary Perdue presented the task forces findings to President Trump. These findings included 31 recommendations to align the federal government with state, local and tribal governments to take advantage of opportunities that exist in rural America. Increasing investments in rural infrastructure is a key recommendation of the task force. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-discusses-border-security-funding-on-fox-news,Capito Discusses Border Security Funding on FOX News,2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.13.18 Capito Discusses Border Security Funding on FOX News Were fully committed to try to meet the president. WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chair of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, this morning appeared on Fox News Americas Newsroom with Bill Hemmer to discuss border security and current government funding negotiations. We should be able to work this out, Senator Capito said. But weve got to look at whats going on at the border. Its escalating. Drugs and human traffickingthis rises to the presidents argument that we need more dollars in our border security, which includes the wall. The point of the matter is this is our national securityfor communities down on the border, for my communities in West Virginia who are ravaged by fentanyl and heroin. This is money that the American people feel we should be spending to secure our borders and make this situation much safer and better for our country. As chair of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Capito has played an active role in government funding negotiations, including those for the Department of Homeland Security and border security. To watch the full interview, click here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-landmark-legislation_to-combat-alzheimers,Senate Passes Landmark Legislation to Combat Alzheimers,2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.13.18 Senate Passes Landmark Legislation to Combat Alzheimers WASHINGTON, D.C. The Senate yesterday evening unanimously passed the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimers Act, legislation authored by U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.). The bipartisan bill would, for the first time, create a public health infrastructure across the country to combat Alzheimers disease and preserve brain health. The BOLD Act now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. To prevent millions of more Americans and their families from being devastated by Alzheimers, we have to tackle this disease on all fronts. The BOLD Act helps us do that by empowering our federal and state public health infrastructure to play an expanded role and by helping us gain a better understanding of the true scope of the disease, Senator Capito said. This is a very personal priority for me, and Im excited for it to head to the presidents desk. Its a great step for those living with Alzheimers and those who care for and love them. On behalf of the millions of Americans affected by Alzheimers disease, we want to thank Senators Collins, Cortez Masto, Capito, and Kaine for their steadfast leadership in the fight to end Alzheimers, Alzheimers Association Chief Public Policy Officer Robert Egge said. The BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimers Act is innovative legislation that will allow our nation to address Alzheimers as the urgent public health crisis that it is. We appreciate Senator Collins and the more than half of Congress who followed her lead in cosponsoring the bill for recognizing the impact this devastating disease has on our nation, and for taking decisive action to change the trajectory of this disease. More than five million Americans are living with Alzheimers, and the United States spends more than $277 billion per year, including $186 billion in costs to Medicare and Medicaid. Without further action, the number of Americans with Alzheimers is expected to triple to as many as 14 million by 2050, costing the nation more than $1.1 trillion per year. This legislation would apply a public health approach to reduce risk, detect early symptoms, advance care, improve data, and ultimately change the trajectory of this devastating disease. Headed by the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC), it would authorize $20 million annually over the next five years to establish: Alzheimers Disease and Related Dementias Public Health Centers of Excellence dedicated to promoting effective Alzheimers disease and caregiving interventions as well as educating the public on Alzheimers disease, cognitive decline, and brain health. The centers would implement the CDCs Healthy Aging Public Health Road Map, and would take key steps to support health and social services professionals as well as families and communities. Cooperative Agreements with the CDC that would be awarded to State Health Departments to help them meet local needs in promoting brain health, reducing risk of cognitive decline, improving care for those with Alzheimers, and other key public health activities. Data Grants to improve the analysis and timely reporting of data on Alzheimers, cognitive decline, caregiving, and health disparities at the state and national levels. The BOLD Act was introduced by Senators Capito, Collins, Cortez Masto, and Kaine last year and is cosponsored by a total of 57 Senators and supported by 183 organizations and individuals, including the Alzheimers Association, Alzheimers Impact Movement, and Maria Shriver, founder of The Womens Alzheimers Movement. Representatives Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.) and Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) introduced a companion bill in the House of Representatives, which is cosponsored by 251 members. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-applauds-usda-program-to-prioritize-broadband-deployment-in-west-virginia-,Manchin Applauds USDA Program to Prioritize Broadband Deployment in West Virginia,2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 13, 2018 Manchin Applauds USDA Program to Prioritize Broadband Deployment in West Virginia Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) applauded the United States Agriculture Department (USDA) for deploying the e-Connectivity Pilot Program, which aims to improve connectivity and closing the digital divide in rural and geographically challenging portions of the state. Now, businesses, non-profits and communities in West Virginia can apply for the ReConnect Program for funding for broadband deployment. West Virginia faces unique challenges when it comes to providing broadband access, and the first step to fixing that is making sure rural states like West Virginia are priority. Strong broadband access for the Mountain State will be a game changer to not only our economy, but also our public safety, education, and connectivity to our friends and family. I am glad the USDA is launching this program that will help prioritize broadband deployment for rural states like West Virginia, Senator Manchin said. Funding for the e-Connectivity Pilot Program comes from the fiscal year 2018 omnibus appropriations bill which Senator Manchin voted to approve on March 23, 2018. The same bill also includes various broadband mapping provisions that Senator Manchin authored to help target federal support to the places that need it most, including the Rural Wireless Access Act which requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to standardize its collection of wireless coverage data and ensure it is collected in a consistent manner, and explicit requirements that the FCC report on the actions they will take to improve the collection of mobile broadband coverage data to address the limitations of the current data. On September 26, Senator Manchin lead a bipartisan letter with seven of his colleagues in the U.S. Senate to encourage U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to prioritize rural and geographically challenging areas in the implementation of its e-Connectivity Pilot Program. The program allots $600 million to invest in high-speed internet and broadband access across the country. ### 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-puts-hold-on-fcc-nomination-until-fcc-chairman-guarantees-broadband-funding-for-west-virginia-,Manchin Puts Hold on FCC Nomination Until FCC Chairman Guarantees Broadband Funding for West Virginia,2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 13, 2018 Manchin Puts Hold on FCC Nomination Until FCC Chairman Guarantees Broadband Funding for West Virginia Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) put a hold on Federal Communications Commission (FCC) nominee, Brendan Carr. Last week, the FCC announced that they were indefinitely pausing the release of $4.5 billion through Mobility Fund Phase II. Over the past three years, Senator Manchin has fought to reallocate this funding to places like West Virginia that are the hardest and most expensive to serve. Last week the FCC finally recognized that their broadband maps were inaccurate. That's something that I have been saying since day one. But the answer is not to put the Mobility Fund on an indefinite hold that prevents states like West Virginia from receiving the funding they desperately need to deploy mobile broadband. That's why I am putting a hold on Brendan Carr's nomination until FCC Chairman Ajit Pai can show me how states like West Virginia can access the broadband funding we need to close the digital divide. I was one of the more than 100 challengers who invested time and energy trying to make the Mobility Fund process work. If the Chairman feels he needs to put the brakes on this program at this stage of the game, I need to put the brakes on the confirmation of his next Commissioner until he can show me where we're supposed to go from here, Senator Manchin said. The FCC announced they were putting the Mobility Fund Phase II on hold because it became apparent that the broadband connectivity maps that broadband providers submitted to the FCC were inaccurate, something that Senator Manchin has said from the beginning. Senator Manchin was the only Member of Congress to submit a formal challenge to the Mobility Fund Phase II initial eligible areas map. The data Senator Manchin submitted proves the coverage map released by the FCC does not accurately depict broadband coverage throughout West Virginia. Senator Manchin was the only member of Congress to submit a formal challenge. In May, the FCC granted Senator Manchin a waiver to participate as a challenger in the Mobility Fund Phase II challenge process, to make sure that broadband coverage maps in West Virginia are accurate. To read Senator Manchin's waiver request, click here. To view the eligible areas map released by the FCC click here. Senator Manchin's Efforts on the Mobility Fund November 26, 2018: Senator Manchin becomes only Member of Congress to successfully challenge to the Mobility Fund Phase II Initial Eligible Areas Map. June 5, 2018: Senator Manchin hosts a Facebook Live with FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel and Aaron Cox, Chairman of the Hampshire County Broadband Initiative Council to discuss broadband access in West Virginia, Mobility Fund II and how West Virginians could challenge the mapping process. May 18, 2018: Senator Manchin hosts the FCC Wireless Telecommunications Bureau's Associate Chief of Competition and Infrastructure Policy Division, Michael Janson, for an FCC Mobility Fund II Challenge Process presentation in West Virginia to help stakeholders better understand the challenge process and the opportunities they have to improve the accuracy of the eligibility map. April 10, 2018: The FCC responds to Senator Manchin's request that they provide support to state and local governments by releasing a new map that shows areas where challenges have the best likelihood of success. March 29, 2018: Senator Manchin sends a letter to Chairman Pai encouraging the FCC to work with state and local governments on the Mobility Fund II Map Challenge Process to ensure the map reflects the actual real world experience of West Virginians. February 27, 2018: FCC releases their Initial Eligible Areas Map for Mobility Fund II. August 3, 2017: FCC votes on Mobility Fund Order to begin the process of providing $4.53 billion over ten years to expand mobile broadband deployment. April 12, 2017: Senator Manchin and Senator Wicker sent a letter to the FCC urging their Rural Broadband Auctions Task Force to move forward with the Mobility Fund using accurate maps. February 23, 2017: Senator Manchin praised the FCC, after it votes unanimously to move forward with Phase II of Mobility Fund, which prioritizes mobile broadband deployment in rural and underserved communities and protects small internet service providers from burdensome regulations. February 16, 2017: Senator Manchin and Senator Wicker meet with Chairman Pai to discuss the importance of a robust, reliable, and standardized data collection and challenge process. February 2, 2017: Senator Manchin, along with Senator Wicker, and 28 of their colleagues, sent a letter to Chairman Pai again urging the FCC to move on the Mobility Fund. January 25, 2017: Senator Manchin and FCC Commissioner Clyburn published an op-ed on the importance of the Mobility Fund in a 21st century digital economy. October 11, 2016: Senator Manchin hosted Chairman Wheeler in West Virginia to meet with key stakeholders from West Virginia's communication technology sector and talk about the importance of the Mobility Fund. July 11, 2016: Senator Manchin, along with Senator Roger Wicker and 24 of their colleagues, sent a letter to Chairman Wheeler urging the FCC to move on the Mobility Fund. March 1, 2016: Senator Manchin, along with Senator Gardner and 7 of their colleagues, send a letter to Chairman Wheeler expressing their frustration with the inability of the FCC to accurately measure mobile broadband coverage available to consumers, especially in rural areas, and urging the FCC to partner with industry and other stakeholders to solve this problem. February 29, 2016: Senator Manchin meets with Chairman Wheeler to highlight the importance of working with local, state, federal, and private entities to collect accurate data on mobile broadband coverage to ensure federal resources are invested in the places that truly need it. September 22, 2015: Senator Manchin sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Tom Wheeler, urging him to move on the Mobility Fund, which would ensure that the states with the lowest rates of advanced wireless penetration received the most funding, and inviting him to WV. July 23, 2015: Senator Manchin meets with Chairman Wheeler to discuss the important role the Mobility Fund can play in supporting broadband investments in hard to serve areas like West Virginia. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-votes-to-end-united-states-involvement-in-yemen-,Manchin Votes to End United States Involvement in Yemen,2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 13, 2018 Manchin Votes to End United States Involvement in Yemen Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on his vote for S.J.Res.54, a joint resolution directing the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities in the Republic of Yemen. Today I voted to end the United States support of the Saudi Arabian-led coalition in the war in Yemen. After reviewing the overwhelming evidence, it is clear that the Saudi-led coalition's actions in Yemen are no longer something we, the leader of the free world, can support. Approximately 85,000 children have died from starvation and malnutrition as a direct result from this war. It's completely horrific and inhumane. These children's' deaths were avoidable and we cannot turn a blind eye to these human rights atrocities. This resolution passed with bipartisan support and sends a clear message to Saudi Arabia that the United States will no longer tolerate their disregard for human life."" ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-44-million-to-repair-damaged-roadways,"Capito, Manchin Announce $4.4 Million to Repair Damaged Roadways",2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.12.18 Capito, Manchin Announce $4.4 Million to Repair Damaged Roadways Funding will repair roads in Hancock, Lincoln, Monongalia, Ohio counties WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chair of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $4,437,159 for West Virginia through the Federal Emergency Management Agencys (FEMA) Public Assistance grant program. Funding will assist the West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) with repairs to roadways in Hancock, Lincoln, Monongalia, and Ohio counties that were damaged as a result of storms in February 2018. West Virginians know all too well the damage that flooding can bring to our communities, but we always pull our neighbors and ourselves up and move forward, Senator Capito said. As chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I have worked to ensure West Virginia communities and communities across America have the resources they need to recover from natural disasters. I am pleased this funding is coming to our state to repair roads that West Virginia families depend on, and I will continue to be a strong partner in future recovery efforts."" I am grateful that the WV Division of Highways have received these grants. Senator Manchin said. This year, our state has withstood many weather-related disasters, which have unfortunately taken a toll on our roadways across the state. This funding will help repair and clear roadways that have been damaged by severe storms, flooding, mudslides, and landslides for safer travel. As a member of the Appropriations committee, I will continue to seek similar funding for West Virginia in the future. Individual awards listed below: WVDOH District 2 - $1,217,795 for repairs in Lincoln County. WVDOH District 6 - $1,119,201 for repairs in Ohio County. WVDOH District 4 - $1,085,016 for repairs in Monongalia County. WVDOH District 6 - $1,015,145 for repairs in Hancock County. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-statement-on-trump-administrations_action-on-opportunity-zones,Capito Statement on Trump Administrations Action on Opportunity Zones,2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.12.18 Capito Statement on Trump Administrations Action on Opportunity Zones WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued a statement following a White House event touting Opportunity Zones, a federal program designed to incentivize investment in disadvantaged communities, and President Trumps signing of an executive order aimed at creating opportunity in distressed areas: Opportunity Zones can be a game changer for West Virginia and a way to drive economic growth in the parts of our state that need it most. Investors have the chance to change lives in their own backyards. Thats what community is all about.The presidents action to create the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council will help maximize revitalization of and coordination for needy communities in West Virginia and throughout America. Im proud President Trump has prioritized economic development and encouraged innovative solutions like Opportunity Zones, and Ill continue working with the administration, as well as local and state leaders, to grow the economy and create more jobs and opportunity throughout our state. BACKGROUND Senator Capito co-sponsored the Opportunity Zone language in last years Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. In August, Senator Capito hosted Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) to Huntington, West Virginia, to explore the Opportunity Zones in the area and talk with local business leaders. She also authored an op-ed with Senator Scott explaining Opportunity Zones potential in West Virginia. For a video showing highlights of the senators trip in Huntington, click here. In October, Senator Capito met with investors and community leaders in Charleston, West Virginia, to show how Opportunity Zones not only help low-income communities, but also offer sizable capital gains tax relief. Senator Capito and her staff have traveled extensively throughout the state to ensure business leaders in all communities are aware of the benefits of Opportunity Zones. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/videos-capito-presents-new-river-gorge-bill-to_national-parks-subcommittee,VIDEOS: Capito Presents New River Gorge Bill to National Parks Subcommittee,2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.12.18 VIDEOS: Capito Presents New River Gorge Bill to National Parks Subcommittee WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today discussed her bill, theNew River Gorge National Park Designation Act, at a National Parks Subcommittee hearing, explaining how it would expand economic opportunities and encourage tourism in the New River Gorge area. The New River Gorge serves as a great source of pride for my state of West Virginia and is a driver of our states tourism industry, Senator Capito said in her opening statement. This year, I heard from a growing chorus of constituents, local officials, and other West Virginia organizations and businesses who support redesignation, which prompted my introduction of S.3534. West Virginias economy is diversifying, and tourism is playing a significant role in providing jobs directly and indirectly to West Virginians, so this represents a real opportunity for that growth. For a video of Senator Capitos opening remarks, click here or on the image above. For a video of Senator Capitos questions for National Park Service Deputy Director P. Daniel Smith, click here or on the image above. For more information about the legislation, click here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-44-million-to-repair-damaged-roads,"Manchin, Capito Announce $4.4 Million To Repair Damaged Roads",2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 12, 2018 Manchin, Capito Announce $4.4 Million To Repair Damaged Roads Funding will repair roads in Hancock, Lincoln, Monongalia, Ohio counties Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $4,437,159 for West Virginia through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Public Assistance grant program. Funding will assist the West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) with repairs to roadways in Hancock, Lincoln, Monongalia, and Ohio counties that were damaged as a result of storms in February 2018. I am grateful that the WV Division of Highways have received these grants. Senator Manchin said. This year, our state has withstood many weather-related disasters, which have unfortunately taken a toll on our roadways across the state. This funding will help repair and clear roadways that have been damaged by severe storms, flooding, mudslides, and landslides for safer travel. As a member of the Appropriations committee, I will continue to seek similar funding for West Virginia in the future. West Virginians know all too well the damage that flooding can bring to our communities, but we always pull our neighbors and ourselves up and move forward, Senator Capito said. As chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I have worked to ensure West Virginia communities and communities across America have the resources they need to recover from natural disasters. I am pleased this funding is coming to our state to repair roads that West Virginia families depend on, and I will continue to be a strong partner in future recovery efforts. Individual awards listed below: WVDOH District 2 - $1,217,795 for repairs in Lincoln County. WVDOH District 6 - $1,119,201 for repairs in Ohio County. WVDOH District 4 - $1,085,016 for repairs in Monongalia County. WVDOH District 6 - $1,015,145 for repairs in Hancock County. # # # Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-votes-to-pass-final-senate-house-farm-bill-agreement,Capito Votes to Pass Final Senate-House Farm Bill Agreement,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.18 Capito Votes to Pass Final Senate-House Farm Bill Agreement Final legislation includes Capito measures to improve broadband access, wastewater systems in rural communities WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today voted in support of a final Farm Bill compromise, which includes measures she introduced to improve access to rural broadband and to address wastewater challenges faced by rural communities. The Senate passed its original version of the Farm Bill in June by a 86-11 vote and passed the final compromise measure today by a 87-13 vote. In addition to supporting our farmers and ranchers, the final Farm Bill compromise includes many provisions that will help improve the lives of families and individuals living in rural states like West Virginia, Senator Capito said. Im glad to see a measure I introduced to help expand access to broadband included in the final agreement, along with my provision that will help West Virginians and others gain access to safe and reliable wastewater systems. I look forward to President Trump signing this legislation into law and helping to deliver important resources and infrastructure for those who call Rural America home. BACKGROUND The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 includes a provision based on Senator Capitos Broadband Connections for Rural Opportunities Program (B-CROP) Act. The legislation, which she introduced in August 2017, would make grant funding available for rural broadband projects in high-need areas to be awarded in combination with the current loan funding available through the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) Rural Utilities Service. More information is available here. Another provision included in the Farm Bill is based on Senator Capitos Residential Decentralized Wastewater Improvement Act. Introduced in April 2018, this legislation would establish a new program to provide grants to low- and moderate-income households for connecting homes to existing wastewater infrastructure or installing or upgrading individually-owned decentralized wastewater systems. More information is available here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-stresses-importance-of-delivering-needed-border-security-resources,VIDEO: Capito Stresses Importance of Delivering Needed Border Security Resources,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.18 VIDEO: Capito Stresses Importance of Delivering Needed Border Security Resources WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chair of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, today spoke on the Senate floor to highlight the increasing need for funding to better secure the U.S.-Mexico border. After demonstrating how the situation at the border is escalating, she called for a bipartisan solution that will provide the Department of Homeland Security and law enforcement personnel the resources necessary to strengthen border security and keep Americans safe. This past summer, I traveled for several days to the southwest border both in California and in Texas. I witnessed the needs that we have there firsthand. I saw the open pathways across our border and into our communities. I saw the gaps in our border security. I also saw communities that have become safer because we have provided border security, Senator Capito said. I urge my colleagues here in the Senate to take a long, hard look at the undisputable facts that demonstrate the crisis on the border is escalating. Our law enforcement personnel have provided us with a plan to work towards improving and solving that problem. Lets work together and get this done. For a video of Senator Capitos remarks, click here or on the image above. For photos and additional information on Senator Capitos recent trip to the Pacific coast and the U.S.-Mexico border to learn more about border security efforts, click here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-announced-as-ranking-member-on-senate-energy-committee,Manchin Announced As Ranking Member On Senate Energy Committee,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 11, 2018 Manchin Announced As Ranking Member On Senate Energy Committee Senator Manchin will serve as the lead Democrat on the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today announced that he will represent West Virginians as the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Senator Manchin has been a member of the committee since being elected to the Senate in 2010. I am excited for the opportunity to continue to serve West Virginians in this new role as the lead Democrat on the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, Senator Manchin said. This Committee has a long history of bipartisanship that has helped propel our nation's energy technology forward. West Virginia is a leading energy producer and major contributor to advanced energy technologies, and I intend to ensure this progress is continued.The problems facing our country are serious, and I am committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to find common sense solutions for long-term comprehensive energy policy that incorporates an all-of-the-above strategy and ensures our state and our nation are leaders in the energy future. The Energy & Natural Resources Committee also holds jurisdiction over many issues pertaining to our nation's public lands and territories.As a proud West Virginian, Senator Manchin looks forward to continuing his work to preserve West Virginia's wild and wonderful outdoor heritage. ### 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-to-pass-bipartisan-farm-bill,Manchin Votes To Pass Bipartisan Farm Bill,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 11, 2018 Manchin Votes To Pass Bipartisan Farm Bill Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) voted to pass the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (the Farm Bill), bipartisan legislation that reauthorizes agriculture, nutrition and forestry programs overseen by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Senator Manchin made sure to include top West Virginia priorities in the Farm Bill including funding to fight the opioid epidemic, broadband expansion and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program. The funding and program authorization this bipartisan legislation provides will make a huge difference in our state and improve the lives of thousands of West Virginians. This legislation expands the USDA's Community Facilities Grant Program and the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program that prioritize funding for solutions in rural communities, like many in West Virginia. This bipartisan legislation will help West Virginia fight the opioid epidemic, create jobs and expand broadband for thousands of West Virginians, Senator Manchin said. Below are some of the West Virginia priorities Senator Manchin secured in the bill: Includes a provision creating a Broadband Grant Program, which prioritizes unserved communities, and increases the authorization for this provision from $25 million to $350 million annually. Targets the opioid crisis by expanding USDA Rural Development investments in telemedicine and community treatment facilities. Includes provisions from Senator Manchin's bill, the Chesapeake Bay Farm Bill Enhancements Act of 2017. Triples mandatory funding and increases Critical Conservation Area funding pools to 50% within the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). Small Towns and Rural Communities: The 2018 Farm Bill expands high-speed internet in rural communities, takes important steps to fight the opioid crisis by investing in telemedicine and essential community facilities that can provide critical treatment options for communities suffering from opioid addiction. In June, Senator Manchin sent a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition & Forestry to urge them to include important funding and programs that help West Virginians. Read that letter here. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-announces-40-million-for-critical-transportation-infrastructure,Capito Announces $40 Million for Critical Transportation Infrastructure,2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.18 Capito Announces $40 Million for Critical Transportation Infrastructure Funding will support Corridor H, Fairview Connector WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $40,000,000 through the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Better Utilizing Investment to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grants. Funding will support the West Virginia Department of Transportation with two specific projects: a bypass around Berkeley Springs that includes construction of the Fairview Connector; and the construction of approximately 10 miles of a four-lane expressway in Tucker County as part of the Appalachian Development Highway System. This is a much needed investment in two critical projects that will make West Virginia roadways safer and more efficient. Not only is this good for travelers and those living in Berkeley Springs and Tucker County communities, but its good for commerce and our states economic potential by better connecting West Virginia to transportation hubs around the country, Senator Capito said. From my first day in the Senate, I have advocated for Corridor H and similar projects that will greatly improve our transportation infrastructure, and Im glad my conversations with Transportation Secretary Chao have proved beneficial to West Virginia. I will continue working to help deliver similar resources. Individual awards listed below: $20,000,000 West Virginia Department of Transportation, Berkeley Springs bypass project $20,000,000 West Virginia Department of Transportation, Tucker County expressway project # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-announces-40-million-in-transportation-grants-for-west-virginia,Manchin Announces $40 Million in Transportation Grants for West Virginia,2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 06, 2018 Manchin Announces $40 Million in Transportation Grants for West Virginia Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), Member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $40 million in grants to West Virginia through the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Transportation Grant Program the first such grants to West Virginia since 2014. Investing in American infrastructure is one of the most important steps we can take to put people back to work and get our economy moving again, Senator Manchin said. I have personally discussed the need for BUILD Grant infrastructure funding with Secretary Chao and stressed to her the vital need to West Virginia. I was very disturbed by the lack of funding within this program for Appalachia last year. I continue to believe that the construction of transportation infrastructure can spur economic development in our state, which is why I have worked with the Department of Transportation to encourage them to make changes to this critical program, and I am happy to see that West Virginia is reaping those benefits today. I will continue to push for increased funding to complete Corridor H and the Appalachian Highway Development System. This funding will provide $20 million each through the WV Department of Highways to two projects in the state that will help connect Corridor H to Parsons in Tucker County and build the US-522 bypass around Berkeley Springs in Morgan County. As a member of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Manchin has long advocated for BUILD Grants, which were known as Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants prior to this year. He also personally supported these projects through letters to the Department of Transportation and calls directly to Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao to stress the importance of these projects on economic development in the state. Background: BUILD grants are awarded on a competitive basis, under the FY2018 Appropriations Act, for projects that will have a significant impact on the nation, a metropolitan area, or a region. These infrastructure improvements are essential to economic revitalization in rural communities. U.S. 522 Berkeley Springs Bypass The completion of the U.S. 522 Berkeley Springs Bypass project will provide direct economic benefit to both Morgan County and the town of Bath, as well as improve access to medical services and increase emergency services response times. This project will construct a bypass around Berkeley Springs and includes the construction of the Fairview Connector. The bypass is approximately 4 miles long and will be a 4-lane divided highway with controlled access and a grass median. Corridor H The completion of this section of Corridor H between Kerens and Parsons will provide residents of West Virginia and visitors to the state easier access and safer roads by linking east central West Virginia to Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York and points North and South along I-81. Completing Corridor H, a part of the Appalachian Development Highway System, has long been one of Senator Manchin's highest priorities. He completed more than half of the highway as Governor, and has continued to advocate for completing Corridor H as a Senator. Corridor H has already had a significant impact by increasing economic vitality and investment in towns like Elkins and Moorefield along the highway. The Appalachian Regional Commission has found that while much of east-central West Virginia has well-regarded schools, workforce, and natural resources, the main issue holding the region back is accessibility, and the completion of Corridor H would help solve that problem. BUILD Grant funds will help construct approximately 10 miles of a 4-lane expressway as part of Corridor H. The project includes paving, constructing traffic control devices and markings, and new guardrails. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1516,McKinley: DOE Report Shows Potential for Petrochemical Hub in Appalachia,2018-12-04,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,David McKinley,M001180,mckinley.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Secretary Rick Perry announced the release of a new study by the Department of Energy detailing the potential for a petrochemical hub located in the Appalachian region. The report highlights the amazing growth of production of natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGL's) in the Marcellus and Utica Shales and emphasizes the benefits an ethane hub would have for America's economy. share: f t Today, Secretary Rick Perry announced the release of a new study by the Department of Energy detailing the potential for a petrochemical hub located in the Appalachian region. The report highlights the amazing growth of production of natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGL's) in the Marcellus and Utica Shales and emphasizes the benefits an ethane hub would have for America's economy. This report affirms what we have been talking about for years, said McKinley. Natural gas production in the region has grown by leaps and bounds over the past decade. The next logical step is to take full advantage of this resource and develop a petrochemical industry in the region. With the vast majority of America's petrochemical industry located on the Gulf Coast and vulnerable to disruptions by hurricanes, it is in the national interest to diversify and build a secondary hub in West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky said McKinley. The report finds that 95% of America's ethylene production capacity is located in Texas and Louisiana. Ethylene is an important feedstock used in chemicals and plastics. West Virginia and surrounding states are poised to become a leader in petrochemicals and manufacturing, but we need to build the necessary infrastructure to make it work, added McKinley. I am committed to continue working with Secretary Perry and other government and private stakeholders to make this happen. To read the full report click here. Background Since 2015, McKinley has been working on the development of an ethane hub in the region that would take advantage of the abundance of natural gas liquids being produced and attract manufacturing. McKinley has taken a number of steps to advance this project, including: Introducing the Appalachian Ethane Storage Hub Study Act (H.R. 2568), which directs the Secretary of Energy and the Secretary of Commerce to conduct a feasibility study of establishing subterranean ethane storage and distribution hub in the Marcellus, Utica, and Rogersville shale plays. Subsequently, the Department of Energy has released two reports regarding the feasibility and demand for this type of project in December 2017 and December 2018. They reports can be found here and here. Introducing the Capitalizing on American Storage Potential Act (H.R. 3143) which would allow the ethane storage project to qualify for a Department of Energy loan guarantee program. Hosting Secretary Perry in West Virginia in July 2017 to discuss the Appalachian Hub project. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-statement-on-passing-of-president-george-hw-bush,Capito Statement on Passing of President George H.W. Bush,2018-12-01,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.01.18 Capito Statement on Passing of President George H.W. Bush WASHINGTON, D.C. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today released the below statement following the death of former President George H.W. Bush: I am so saddened to hear of President Bushs passing. He was an incredible public servant, statesman, and American. He loved this country and spent his entire life working to protect and promote the principles and ideals we value most. I feel very honored to have known him, and I feel even more appreciative of everything he did for our country. My thoughts are with the Bush family, and I pray that they find peace in the incredible legacy of family and country that he leaves behind. What a life well lived. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-the-passing-of-president-george-hw-bush,Manchin Statement on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush,2018-12-01,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 01, 2018 Manchin Statement on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today released this statement following the announcement President George H.W. Bush has passed. Gayle and I were so heartbroken to hear of the passing of President George H.W. Bush. The President dedicated his life to our country through his patriotism, his public service and humanitarian efforts. He was a man who put country and citizens before party and politics and will be remembered as one of the greatest presidents in our history. It was truly an honor to know him and call him and Barbara friends. While our nation will mourn his loss, and pray for the entire Bush family, I will find joy in the knowledge that he is now in heaven with Barbara, the woman he loved more than anything else in this world. West Virginia will be praying for the entire Bush family and thanking them for the legacy President Bush leaves on this world. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-peters-introduce-bill-to-help-communities-attract-workers-and-alleviate-student-loan-debt,"Capito, Peters Introduce Bill to Help Communities Attract Workers & Alleviate Student Loan Debt",2018-11-30,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.30.18 Capito, Peters Introduce Bill to Help Communities Attract Workers & Alleviate Student Loan Debt WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and today introduced legislation to help attract recent graduates to communities that have experienced population loss or have high poverty rates. The bipartisan bill will help expand post-graduation scholarships, which are grants awarded by community foundations to recent graduates to pay down their student debt if they live and work in regions with unmet need. As West Virginia continues to experience economic growth, its important younger workers are not constrained by the costs of higher education,Senator Capito said. Thats why I was glad to work together with Senator Peters to develop legislation that will help more people use their higher education to strengthen workforce development here at home and across the country. Post-graduation scholarships help communities attract younger workers and reduces the financial burden on graduates looking to put their education to use in places where its needed most, said Senator Peters. Im pleased to join Senator Capito in introducing bipartisan legislation that would help expand post-graduation scholarships and spur economic growth in communities across Michigan. Unlike traditional scholarships, recipients of post-graduation scholarships are currently required to pay income tax on the grant. The Workforce Development through Post-Graduation Scholarships Act would: Exclude Post-Graduation Scholarships from Gross Income: This bill would exclude post-graduation scholarships from gross income in the same manner as traditional qualified scholarships. Target Benefits to Communities in Need: In order to direct these scholarships to communities with unmet work needs, this bill targets communities that have a below average number of recent graduates with a bachelors degree and have either experienced recent population loss or are low-income census tracts. Build upon Successful Existing Programs: Community foundations across the country, including in Michigan and West Virginia, have been using these programs to attract needed talent to their regions. Whether the Come Home Fund run by the Community Foundation of St. Clair County in Michigan or Philanthropy West Virginias work on Reverse Scholarships the Workforce Development through Post-Graduation Scholarships Act will allow more groups to effectively and efficiently use these innovative programs to attract young, educated, and motivated individuals to their communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-nominates-31-west-virginians-for-admission-to-us-service-academies,Capito Nominates 31 West Virginians for Admission to U.S. Service Academies,2018-11-28,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.28.18 Capito Nominates 31 West Virginians for Admission to U.S. Service Academies WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today announced U.S. Service Academy nominations for 31 qualified high school seniors from 20 counties in West Virginia. A board chosen by Senator Capito reviewed each nominees application, interviewed candidates, and made recommendations. Each year, I have the honor and privilege of nominating West Virginias best and brightest to our nations prestigious service academies. It is truly one of the most important responsibilities I have as a United States senator, Senator Capito said. I am proud to announce this group of young men and women who are smart, talented, and driven and have worked extremely hard to get to this point. Attending a service academy provides more than just an education; it provides the foundation for a life of service and leadership. I wish each of these nominees the best of luck, and I am honored to support them throughout this process. Service academy nominees are listed below: U.S. Air Force Academy Zeead Mohamed Belhachmi Berkeley County Owen Immanuel Gainer Ohio County Michael Alexander Henriquez (also nominated to the U.S. Military Academy)Jefferson County Hank Zachary Herald Monongalia County Sophia McQuaide Parlock Cabell County Braeden Cole Pauley Monongalia County Michael Lewis Smith Raleigh County Emily Renee Stone Taylor County Margaret Claire Warner Monongalia County Joseph Frederick Wilkins Hardy County U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Blayne Lee Butler Mason County Collin Robert Dodgion Wayne County Nicolas Andr Morel (also nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy)Berkeley County U.S. Military Academy Drew Alexander Adams Wirt County Daelen Andrew Boggs Kanawha County Jonathan Dwayne Cyrus Kanawha County Michael Alexander Henriquez (also nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy)Jefferson County David Bradley Middleton Wood County Mitchell James Miller Wood County Cameron Lee Patterson Putnam County Katelyn Nicole Richardson Mercer County Stephen Robert Snyder Ohio County Payton Elizabeth Stamper Logan County U.S. Naval Academy Victoria Lynn Carson Nicholas County James Alexander Inman Berkeley County Thomas Richard Martineau Jefferson County Nicolas Andr Morel (also nominated to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy)Berkeley County Jordon Ray Nibert Fayette County Evan Kelly Spradling Kanawha County Austin Cole Stover Putnam County Alexis Jane Summers Wood County Taylor Rose Swiger Berkeley County Katherene Rose Welsh Marshall County # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-encourages-west-virginians-to-get-covered-during-aca-open-enrollment-period,Manchin Encourages West Virginians To Get Covered During ACA Open Enrollment Period,2018-11-27,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 27, 2018 Manchin Encourages West Virginians To Get Covered During ACA Open Enrollment Period Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) is encouraging West Virginians to find a health insurance plan that works for them before the Affordable Care Act Open Enrollment Period ends on December 15, 2018. West Virginians can register for health insurance coverage by visiting www.healthcare.gov/get-coverage/ or call 1-800-318-2596. While the ACA is not perfect, the number of uninsured West Virginians has decreased by 56% as a result of the Affordable Care Act and the Medicaid expansion. Every West Virginian deserves access to quality and affordable healthcare. I encourage those without health insurance coverage to visit www.healthcare.gov during the Open Enrollment Period to find a plan that works for them and their families, Senator Manchin said. Open Enrollment Period is the yearly period when people can enroll in a health insurance plan. Open Enrollment for 2019 runs from November 1, 2018 to December 15, 2018. Outside the Open Enrollment Period, West Virginians generally can enroll in a health insurance plan only if they qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. They're eligible for a Special Enrollment Period if they have certain life events such as getting married, having a baby, or losing other health coverage. Job-based plans may have different Open Enrollment Periods and West Virginians should check with their employer for more information regarding changes. West Virginians can apply and enroll in Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) any time of year. ### 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-only-member-of-congress-to-challenge-mobility-fund-coverage-map,Manchin Only Member of Congress to Challenge Mobility Fund Coverage Map,2018-11-27,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 27, 2018 Manchin Only Member of Congress to Challenge Mobility Fund Coverage Map Washington, D.C. Yesterday, Senator Manchin (D-WV) submitted to the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) a formal challenge to Mobility Fund Phase II initial eligible areas map. The data Senator Manchin submitted proves the coverage map released by the FCC does not accurately depict broadband coverage throughout West Virginia. Senator Manchin was the only member of Congress to submit a formal challenge. The data I submitted yesterday proves what every West Virginian already knows to be true: there are too many areas throughout our state that still lack reliable broadband coverage. West Virginia faces unique challenges when it comes to providing broadband access, and the first step to fixing that is making sure these maps accurately reflect coverage on the ground. This map determines who is eligible for a portion of the $4.5 billion that will be made available later this year, and I will continue fighting to ensure every community in West Virginia has the reliable, affordable broadband access they deserve, Senator Manchin said. In May, the FCC granted Senator Manchin a waiver to participate as a challenger in the Mobility Fund Phase II challenge process, to make sure that broadband coverage maps in West Virginia are accurate. To read Senator Manchin's waiver request, click here. To view the eligible areas map released by the FCC click here. Senator Manchin's Efforts on the Mobility Fund June 5, 2018: Senator Manchin hosts a Facebook Live with FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel and Aaron Cox, Chairman of the Hampshire County Broadband Initiative Council to discuss broadband access in West Virginia, Mobility Fund II and how West Virginians could challenge the mapping process. May 18, 2018: Senator Manchin hosts the FCC Wireless Telecommunications Bureau's Associate Chief of Competition and Infrastructure Policy Division, Michael Janson, for an FCC Mobility Fund II Challenge Process presentation in West Virginia to help stakeholders better understand the challenge process and the opportunities they have to improve the accuracy of the eligibility map. April 10, 2018: The FCC responds to Senator Manchin's request that they provide support to state and local governments by releasing a new map that shows areas where challenges have the best likelihood of success. March 29, 2018: Senator Manchin sends a letter to Chairman Pai encouraging the FCC to work with state and local governments on the Mobility Fund II Map Challenge Process to ensure the map reflects the actual real world experience of West Virginians. February 27, 2018: FCC releases their Initial Eligible Areas Map for Mobility Fund II. August 3, 2017: FCC votes on Mobility Fund Order to begin the process of providing $4.53 billion over ten years to expand mobile broadband deployment. April 12, 2017: Senator Manchin and Senator Wicker sent a letter to the FCC urging their Rural Broadband Auctions Task Force to move forward with the Mobility Fund using accurate maps. February 23, 2017: Senator Manchin praised the FCC, after it votes unanimously to move forward with Phase II of Mobility Fund, which prioritizes mobile broadband deployment in rural and underserved communities and protects small internet service providers from burdensome regulations. February 16, 2017: Senator Manchin and Senator Wicker meet with Chairman Pai to discuss the importance of a robust, reliable, and standardized data collection and challenge process. February 2, 2017: Senator Manchin, along with Senator Wicker, and 28 of their colleagues, sent a letter to Chairman Pai again urging the FCC to move on the Mobility Fund. January 25, 2017: Senator Manchin and FCC Commissioner Clyburn published an op-ed on the importance of the Mobility Fund in a 21st century digital economy. October 11, 2016: Senator Manchin hosted Chairman Wheeler in West Virginia to meet with key stakeholders from West Virginia's communication technology sector and talk about the importance of the Mobility Fund. July 11, 2016: Senator Manchin, along with Senator Roger Wicker and 24 of their colleagues, sent a letter to Chairman Wheeler urging the FCC to move on the Mobility Fund. March 1, 2016: Senator Manchin, along with Senator Gardner and 7 of their colleagues, send a letter to Chairman Wheeler expressing their frustration with the inability of the FCC to accurately measure mobile broadband coverage available to consumers, especially in rural areas, and urging the FCC to partner with industry and other stakeholders to solve this problem. February 29, 2016: Senator Manchin meets with Chairman Wheeler to highlight the importance of working with local, state, federal, and private entities to collect accurate data on mobile broadband coverage to ensure federal resources are invested in the places that truly need it. September 22, 2015: Senator Manchin sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Tom Wheeler, urging him to move on the Mobility Fund, which would ensure that the states with the lowest rates of advanced wireless penetration received the most funding, and inviting him to WV. July 23, 2015: Senator Manchin meets with Chairman Wheeler to discuss the important role the Mobility Fund can play in supporting broadband investments in hard to serve areas like West Virginia. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-wishes-west-virginians-a-happy-thanksgiving,VIDEO: Capito Wishes West Virginians a Happy Thanksgiving,2018-11-21,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.21.18 VIDEO: Capito Wishes West Virginians a Happy Thanksgiving As you join together with your loved ones this Thanksgiving, I hope you also take a moment to reflect on the many blessings we all haveas West Virginians and as Americans. WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) released the following video ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday: Click here or the image above to watch Senator Capitos Thanksgiving video.Video and audio can be downloaded by clicking here. Full video transcript included below: As we join together with family and friends this Thanksgiving, we are reminded of our many blessings. We are so blessed to live in a state full of tightknit towns and caring people. I am so thankful to call West Virginia homewhere my family has lived for many generations, where Charlie and I have been fortunate to raise our family, and the state I have the privilege of representing in the United States Senate. Whether its family, friends, good health, the selfless servicemen and women who protect our freedoms every day, or the opportunity to serve the people of our great state, I recognize that I have so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. As you join together with your loved ones this Thanksgiving, I hope you also take a moment to reflect on the many blessings we all haveas West Virginians and as Americans. I wish each of you and every one of you a very happy Thanksgiving. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-statement-on-50th-anniversary-of-farmington-mine-accident-,Capito Statement on 50th Anniversary of Farmington Mine Accident,2018-11-20,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.20.18 Capito Statement on 50th Anniversary of Farmington Mine Accident CHARLESTON, W.Va. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today released the following statement observing the 50th anniversary of the Farmington Mine disaster: Seventy-eight souls were lost on November 20, 1968. Many of the men had families of their own, with wives and children who would be forever changed as a result of the disaster, and West Virginians throughout our state shared in their grief. In our states close-knit communities, the heartache felt by one family is felt by all. Coming on the heels of other disasters over the previous decades, the Farmington Mine disaster challenged us to do better to protect and care for our miners. As we have done countless times before, West Virginians met the challenge head-on, and the tragedy led to passage of legislation that vastly improved mine safety and health. This work continues, and I will remain a forceful advocate for the health and safety of our state and nations miners. Let us honor the lives and legacies of those we lost and work to promote mine safety and secure a bright future for miners everywhere. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-funding-for-drug-treatment-first-responders,"MANCHIN, CAPITO ANNOUNCE FUNDING FOR DRUG TREATMENT, FIRST RESPONDERS",2018-11-16,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 16, 2018 MANCHIN, CAPITO ANNOUNCE FUNDING FOR DRUG TREATMENT, FIRST RESPONDERS WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $747,000 for West Virginia through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Office of Rural Development. Funding will support the expansion of substance abuse treatment facilities in Fayette County and assist the Ceredo Volunteer Fire Department in purchasing ambulance equipment. I am happy to see this grant will provide critical health care to the Mountain State with updated equipment, new vehicles and new treatment facilities to serve rural communities. I am especially excited to see the grant funding go toward the WV Recovery Point of Huntington, which will provide rehabilitation services to Fayette, Summers, Monroe, Raleigh, Boone, Kanawha, Clay, Nicholas and Greenbrier counties, and will open a new residential substance abuse rehabilitation home in Mt. Hope. These resources bring us another step closer to ensuring every West Virginian can get the treatment they need, Senator Manchin said. One of my top priorities is ensuring that West Virginia communities remain wonderful places to call home, Senator Capito said. In recent years, that has meant fighting back against the opioid epidemic through increased access to treatment and additional resources for first responders. Having seen firsthand the tremendous work being done at Recovery Point of Huntington, I am thrilled this funding will allow them to expand and further provide treatment for West Virginians suffering from substance abuse. It will also provide first responders in Ceredo with important equipment they need to provide emergency medical services in their community. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue working with our state's communities to ensure they receive the resources they deserve. Individual awards listed below: $600,000 Recovery Point of Huntington, Inc. $147,000 Ceredo Volunteer Fire Department # # # Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-funding-for-drug-treatment-first-responders,"Capito, Manchin Announce Funding for Drug Treatment, First Responders",2018-11-15,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.15.18 Capito, Manchin Announce Funding for Drug Treatment, First Responders WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $747,000 for West Virginia through the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) Office of Rural Development. Funding will support the expansion of substance abuse treatment facilities in Fayette County and assist the Ceredo Volunteer Fire Department in purchasing ambulance equipment. One of my top priorities is ensuring that West Virginia communities remain wonderful places to call home, Senator Capito said. In recent years, that has meant fighting back against the opioid epidemic through increased access to treatment and additional resources for first responders. Having seen firsthand the tremendous work being done at Recovery Point of Huntington, I am thrilled this funding will allow them to expand and further provide treatment for West Virginians suffering from substance abuse. It will also provide first responders in Ceredo with important equipment they need to provide emergency medical services in their community. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue working with our states communities to ensure they receive the resources they deserve. I am happy to see this grant will provide critical health care to the Mountain State with updated equipment, new vehicles and new treatment facilities to serve rural communities. I am especially excited to see the grant funding go toward the WV Recovery Point of Huntington, which will provide rehabilitation services to Fayette, Summers, Monroe, Raleigh, Boone, Kanawha, Clay, Nicholas and Greenbrier counties, and will open a new residential substance abuse rehabilitation home in Mt. Hope. These resources bring us another step closer to ensuring every West Virginian can get the treatment they need, Senator Manchin said. Individual awards listed below: $600,000 Recovery Point of Huntington, Inc. $147,000 Ceredo Volunteer Fire Department # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-votes-for-legislation-to-support-strengthen-coast-guard,"Capito Votes for Legislation to Support, Strengthen Coast Guard",2018-11-14,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.14.18 Capito Votes for Legislation to Support, Strengthen Coast Guard WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today voted to pass the Frank Lobiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act, comprehensive legislation to support and strengthen the work of the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). As a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Senator Capito helped develop and advance the legislation, and as chair of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, she oversees funding for USCG. She issued the following statement after the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 94 to 6: The men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard work incredibly hard and on so many different fronts to keep Americans safe and help ensure our nation is secure. Ive had the opportunity to spend quite a bit of time with Coast Guard leadership and to learn more about their mission and capabilities firsthandfrom search and rescue following natural disasters and assistance in securing our borders to the critical role they play in drug interdiction. Ive been with them on land, air, and sea in support of the work they do for our nation, including the many West Virginians serving our country as members of the Coast Guard. In West Virginia, the Eastern Panhandle is the proud home to several Coast Guard facilitiesincluding the Vessel Documentation Center, Operations Systems Center, and National Maritime Center. These facilities, and the men and women who work there, are critical to the Coast Guard mission, and this bill will help support their good work. The legislation will also help support and strengthen other Coast Guard efforts across the country and ensure its members are able to do their job safely and effectively. As a member of the Commerce Committee, Im proud to have played a role in getting it to the Senate floor, and I will continue working as chair of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee to make sure the Coast Guard receives the funding and resources it needs. BACKGROUND Senator Capito received a briefing last month on the U.S. Coast Guards work, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Defense, to monitor the security of the airspace of the national capital region. She also recently led a trip to the Pacific coast and the U.S.-Mexico border to learn more about Coast Guard efforts related to border security. To support and strengthen these and other efforts, the Frank Lobiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act: Enhances the Coast Guards maritime drug law enforcement capabilities by authorizing three new Fast Response Cutters, which are the primary vessels used in enforcement activities. Authorizes the Coast Guard to enter into multiyear contracts on certain new acquisitions improving the efficiency of recapitalization. Provides clarity to vessel owners for safety requirements and increases the safety of recreational boaters by requiring engine cut-off switches and increasing the number of visual signaling devices authorized for use. Improves the Coast Guards ability to make timely and cost efficient repairs on vessels by providing more flexibility to choose where alterations, conversions, and repairs occur. Improves Coast Guard maternity and paternity benefits by providing flexibility in the granting of leave to assist new parents. Requires the establishment of a canine currency detection program to help combat concealment of bulk cash. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/11/14/2018/manchin-announces-service-academy-nominations,MANCHIN ANNOUNCES SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATIONS,2018-11-14,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 14, 2018 MANCHIN ANNOUNCES SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATIONS Recommends 38 students from 18 counties Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) announced today that he will nominate 38 West Virginia students from 18 counties to the U.S. Service Academies, which include the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point. It is such an honor to recommend 38 of West Virginia's brightest young men and women to the U.S. service academies, Senator Manchin said. All of our students worked hard to earn these nominations and are determined to serve our country. Many are also striving to carry on their families' proud military heritage. Today, I join all West Virginians in congratulating these hardworking and committed students, because a nomination to one of our elite service academies will develop these young men and women to become our next generation of military leaders. The students are from the following counties:Berkeley, Cabell, Fayette, Hardy, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson, Kanawha, Mason, Marion, Mercer, Monongalia, Nicholas, Ohio, Putnam, Raleigh, Wayne and Wood. Senator Manchin is recommending the following students to the service academies. Students have the opportunity to accept Senator Manchin's recommendation and final admission is determined by the respective academy. Air Force Academy Margaret Warner University High School, Monongalia County Michael Smith Woodrow Wilson High School, Raleigh County Noah Hobson Martinsburg High School, Berkeley County Hank Herald Morgantown High School, Monongalia County Katherene Welsh Munich International School, Home of Record: MarshallCounty Jonathan Smith Buffalo High School, Putnam County Daelen Boggs Sissonville High School, Kanawha County Joseph Wilkins Moorefield High School, Hardy County David Middleton Fork Union Military Academy, Home of Record: WoodCounty Joseph Pinter Princeton High School, Mercer County Military Academy at West Point Mitchell Miller Wood County Christian School, Wood County Miles Kominsky Blacksburg High School, Home of Record: Raleigh County Lilah Kimble Bridgeport High School, Harrison County Katelyn Richardson Pikeview High School, Mercer County Cameron Patterson Marion Military Institute, Home of Record: Putnam County Nicolas Morel Hedgesville High School, Berkeley County Jordon Nibert Naval Academy Preparatory School, Fayette County Justus Burton Martinsburg High School, Berkeley County Victoria Carson Koble Academy, Nicholas County Stephen Snyder The Linsly School, Ohio County Naval Academy Thomas Martineau Martineau Academy of Grace, Jefferson County Cole Stover Hurricane High School, Putman County Michael Henriquez Jefferson High School, Jefferson County Taylor Swiger Hedgesville High School, Berkeley County Trey Toland Fairmont State University, Marion County Evan Spradling South Charleston High School, Kanawha County Tanner Myers Princeton High School, Mercer County Alex Inman Spring Mills High School, Berkeley County Braeden Pauley University High School, Monongalia County Lexi Summers Parkersburg High School, Wood County Merchant Marine Academy Collin Dodgion Grace Christian School, Cabell County Kellie Fisher Jefferson High School, Jefferson County Nicholas DeFazio Wheeling Park High School, Ohio County Spencer Monteville Spring Valley High School, Wayne County Blayne Butler Point Pleasant High School, Mason County Colton Clark Ravenswood High School, Jackson County Cory Daly Jefferson High School, Jefferson County Owen Gainer Central Catholic High School, Ohio County ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mooney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-alex-x-mooney-wv-2-statement-voting-rep-jim-jordan-house,Congressman Alex X. Mooney (WV-2) Statement on Voting for Rep. Jim Jordan for House Minority Leader,2018-11-13,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,WV,Alex Mooney,M001195,mooney.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Alex X. Mooney (WV-2) Statement on Voting for Rep. Jim Jordan for House Minority Leader Today, Congressman Alex X. Mooney released the following statement in support of Congressman Jim Jordan for House Republican Minority Leader. After careful consideration of the candidates running for House Republican Minority Leader, I have chosen to vote for Congressman Jim Jordan of Ohio. Conservatives across West Virginia have made it clear to me they were disappointed that Congress did not enact many of the conservative policies they voted for in the past several years. After the disappointing election results last week, I think we need a new leader who will present bold conservative alternatives to the failed liberal policies of Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats, said Congressman Mooney. Background on Rep. Jim Jordan Congressman Jim Jordan is a proven conservative fighterwho has led the charge of the past few years to defend President Donald Trump's conservative agenda. Congressman Jordan was a founding member of the House Freedom Caucus and was the first Chairman. Under his leadership, the House Freedom Caucus fought back against the Washington establishment and became the voice for liberty, limited government and the Constitution. Congressman Jordan has Represented Ohio's Fourth District since 2008 and has served as a past Chairman of the Republican Study Committee. He serves on the House Judiciary Committee and the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. The House Republican Conference is set to vote on Wednesday, November 14th for the position of Minority Leader and the other Republican leadership positions. The full House will vote on Speaker of the House only on January 3, 2019. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/photos-capito-hosts-tyler-county-girls-rise-up-event,PHOTOS: Capito Hosts Tyler County Girls Rise Up Event,2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.08.18 PHOTOS: Capito Hosts Tyler County Girls Rise Up Event Discusses importance of education, physical fitness, self-confidence with elementary school girls SISTERSVILLE, W.Va. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today hosted her second West Virginia Girls Rise Up event this month. Todays visit included a stop at Sistersville Elementary School in Tyler County, Senator Capitos 16th Girls Rise Up event since launching the program in 2015the same year she was sworn in as the first female U.S. senator for West Virginia. During the visit, Senator Capito met with fourth and fifth grade girls to help inspire and empower the next generation of female leaders in West Virginia. As the first female U.S. Senator from West Virginia, I want to inspire and encourage young girls in our state to work toward their goals and achieve their dreams. After spending time with this great group of fourth and fifth grade girls at Sistersville Elementary, it is clear to me that they are well on their way to accomplishing so much, Senator Capito said. Since launching this program, its been my hope that Girls Rise Up will inspire our next generation of female leaders, and Im confident each of the young girls at Sistersville will achieve success, and most importantly, build each other up each and every day. Sistersville Elementary School students show off their Girls Rise Up challenge cards following todays presentation and discussion. Senator Capito meets members of Sistersville Elementary Schools student council before touring the school. Senator Capito hears from students about their goals and aspirations for the future. Senator Capito talks with math students at Sistersville Elementary School. Senator Capito discusses the three pillars of Girls Rise Upeducation, physical fitness, and self-confidence. Senator Capito launched the West Virginia Girls Rise Up mentoring program in 2015 to instill confidence in young West Virginia women and empower them to be strong, confident, and kind female leaders. Todays visits marks the 16th Girls Rise Up event Senator Capito has hosted since launching the program. Her most recent Girls Rise Up event occurred last week at Oakvale Elementary School in Mercer County. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-announces-funding-to-expand-telemedicine-in-west-virginia,Capito Announces Funding to Expand Telemedicine in West Virginia,2018-11-01,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.01.18 Capito Announces Funding to Expand Telemedicine in West Virginia WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $663,223 through the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) Office of Rural Development. Funding comes through the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant program and will support the expansion of telemedicine services in several West Virginia counties. Services will primarily focus on behavioral health and ensuring a continuum of care for those suffering from chronic kidney disease. Broadening access to health care in rural areas saves lives. Telemedicine is a cost-effective option for providing many basic health care services, and it helps ensure West Virginians are able to access care right in their communities, Senator Capito said. This funding through USDA will help expand telemedicine in several counties throughout West Virginia. Through my Capito Connect plan to expand broadband service and connectivity, I am working to ensure these types of service can continue and expand, and I will do everything I can to give West Virginians access to themno matter where they live. Individual awards listed below: $163,223 CAMC Health Education and Research Institute # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/photos-capito-takes-girls-rise-up-program-to-mercer-county,PHOTOS: Capito Takes Girls Rise Up Program to Mercer County,2018-11-01,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.01.18 PHOTOS: Capito Takes Girls Rise Up Program to Mercer County Discusses importance of education, physical fitness, self-confidence with elementary school girls PRINCETON, W.Va. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today took her West Virginia Girls Rise Up program on the road to Oakvale Elementary School in Mercer County. The visit marked her 15th Girls Rise Up event since launching the program in 2015the same year she was sworn in as the first female U.S. senator for West Virginia. During the visit, Senator Capito met with third, fourth, and fifth grade girls in an effort to help inspire and empower the next generation of female leaders in West Virginia. Women in West Virginia and across the world should be inspired and encouraged every day to work toward their goals and achieve their dreams, and they should know that its never too early to start. Thats exactly why I started my Girls Rise Up program, Senator Capito said. I was so excited to bring my program to Oakvale today where I met some amazing young women who have some very bright futures ahead of them. Its my hope that Girls Rise Up will inspire them to pursue their goals and achieve them, and I cant wait to see all of the wonderful things they accomplish in the years to come. We are honored to have Senator Capito visit Oakvale Elementary. She is an inspiration to our staff and students. Senator Capitos Girls Rise Up program reinforces the leadership skills we instill in our female students each day, Oakvale Elementary School Principal LaCosta Hodges said. Oakvale Elementary School students show off their Girls Rise Up challenge cards following todays presentation and discussion.Senator Capito hears from students about their goals and aspirations for the future.Students work on completing their Girls Rise Up challenge cards. Senator Capito is interviewed by Maddie and Owen, two members of the Oakvale Elementary School news team.Senator Capito discusses the importance of education, physical fitness, and self-confidencethe three pillars of Girls Rise Up. Senator Capito launched the West Virginia Girls Rise Up mentoring program in 2015 to instill confidence in young West Virginia women and empower them to be strong, confident, and kind female leaders. Todays visits marks the 15th Girls Rise Up event Senator Capito has hosted since launching the program. Her most recent Girls Rise Up events occurred in March with NASA Astronaut Dr. Peggy Whitson. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-applauds-another-great-hinton-railroad-festival,Manchin Applauds Another Great Hinton Railroad Festival,2018-10-26,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 26, 2018 Manchin Applauds Another Great Hinton Railroad Festival Charleston, WV U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) applauded another successful Hinton Railroad Days Festival. The annual festival is hosted by the Collis P. Huntington Railroad Historical Society, a 59-year old non-profit organization that operates private railroad cars through Amtrak. This April, Amtrak announced it would no longer accept private and charter trains, which the Collis P. Huntington Railroad Historical Society uses for the Hinton Railroad Days Festival. After bringing together Amtrak and the Collis P. Huntington Society to explain the adverse impact this new policy would have on West Virginia communities, Senator Manchin helped broker a deal to continue providing service for the Hinton Railroad Days Festival. I'm so glad the Collis P. Huntington Railroad Historical Society had another great and successful Hinton Railroad Days Festival. Every year, the New River Train adds an estimated $5 million to West Virginia's economy. When Amtrak announced they would be ending the services, I brought both parties together to ensure that we would not lose the New River Train. Since then, I have kept in touch with both parties and included language in this year's Transportation Appropriations bill to make sure that Collis P. Huntington can stay open this year and beyond. Hundreds of thousands of West Virginians and people from out of state enjoy this festival every year, and I will continue to work to make sure that it goes on for years to come. I hope the last of the festival weekend is enjoyable and happy for all, Senator Manchin 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-leads-letter-to-sessions-urging-correction-of-staffing-shortage-at-bureau-of-prisons-,Manchin Leads Letter to Sessions Urging Correction of Staffing Shortage at Bureau of Prisons,2018-10-26,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 26, 2018 Manchin Leads Letter to Sessions Urging Correction of Staffing Shortage at Bureau of Prisons Charleston, WV U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) sent U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions a letter expressing concerns about staffing practices at the Bureau of Prisons (BOP). The letter specifically raised concerns regarding the over-reliance of augmentation and the failure of the BOP to follow congressional directives to hire more full-time correctional officers. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Pat Toomey (R-PA), Bob Casey (D-PA) and U.S. Representative Bill Shuster (R-PA) also joined the letter. The letter said in part: We share your belief that the safety of staff, inmates, and the public is the highest priority for the BOP. Unfortunately, our states, West Virginia and Pennsylvania, have seen firsthand how dangerous continual understaffing can be to both BOP staff and the inmates they supervise. In February 2013, Correctional Officer Eric Williams was brutally murdered by an inmate at USP Canaan in Pennsylvania. Officer Williams was alone in a housing unit with over one hundred inmates when he was attacked. In April 2018, an inmate at FCC Hazelton in West Virginia was mortally wounded in a fight that erupted in one of the housing units and died shortly thereafter. Last month, another inmate was killed at the same West Virginia facility, marking the second homicide in that facility in just five months. This is unacceptable. Read the full letter below or click here: Dear Attorney General Sessions: We are writing to express our deep concerns about the Bureau of Prisons' (BOP) staffing practices, particularly the over-reliance on augmentation and the failure to follow clear congressional directives to hire more full-time correctional officers. We share your belief that the safety of staff, inmates, and the public is the highest priority for the BOP. Unfortunately, our states, West Virginia and Pennsylvania, have seen firsthand how dangerous continual understaffing can be to both BOP staff and the inmates they supervise. In February 2013, Correctional Officer Eric Williams was brutally murdered by an inmate at USP Canaan in Pennsylvania. Officer Williams was alone in a housing unit with over one hundred inmates when he was attacked. In April 2018, an inmate at FCC Hazelton in West Virginia was mortally wounded in a fight that erupted in one of the housing units and died shortly thereafter. Last month, another inmate was killed at the same West Virginia facility, marking the second homicide in that facility in just five months. This is unacceptable. In 2016, with our support, Congress provided BOP with additional funds to support additional correctional officers for each housing unit at high security institutions. As such, all BOP high security institutions would have at least two correctional officers on duty in each housing unit for all three shifts. Since then, this funding has been included each fiscal year. Unfortunately, as we understand it, this policy is not being enforced as intended. We have heard reports, for example, that some wardens are allowing second housing unit officers to leave their workstations once inmates are secured inside their cells. We respectfully request an update on current BOP staffing practices at high security institutions, including a detailed report on the implementation of the two officer minimum policy in housing units and any exceptions or exemptions that have been made to it. We understand the inherent dangers of these jobs and remain fully committed to ensuring the brave men and women of BOP have the resources they need to do them safely. That's why Congress provided over $7 billion to BOP earlier this year for salaries and expenses in fiscal year 2018. That was a $29 million increase over the President's budget request and a $106 million increase over fiscal year 2017 funding levels. Along with the funding, the Senate report accompanying the fiscal year 2018 appropriations law included clear directions to BOP to curtail its overreliance on augmentation and instead hire full-time correctional staff before continuing to augment existing staff. We continue to be concerned about augmentation as evidenced by the Senate Commerce Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee-approved report for fiscal year 2019 which states, The Committee again directs BOP to curtail its overreliance on augmentation, particularly in housing units. In your response to this letter, please also provide an update on the status of ongoing efforts to hire more full-time correctional officers and reduce the BOP's over-reliance on augmentation. As Members of Congress representing the great states of West Virginia and Pennsylvania, we are proud to have BOP facilities in our states, but we cannot allow these dangerous staffing practices to continue. We look forward to your response and remain committed to working with the leadership at BOP to solve these problems. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-peters-provisions-improving-opioid-treatment-for-adolescents-signed-into-law,"Capito, Peters Provisions Improving Opioid Treatment for Adolescents Signed Into Law",2018-10-25,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.25.18 Capito, Peters Provisions Improving Opioid Treatment for Adolescents Signed Into Law Opioids Package Includes Language from Bipartisan YOUTH Act WASHINGTON, D.C. President Donald Trump has signed into law provisions based off the YOUTH Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich) to expand access to safe, effective treatment for adolescents and young adults struggling with opioid addiction. The provisions, which were included as part of broader legislation, expand an existing youth substance use disorder program to include young adults and help support the identification of best practices for overcoming barriers to medication assisted treatment (MAT) for young people. The presidents signing of this important legislation into law codifies the federal governments response in addressing the opioid epidemic, Senator Capito said. Im proud the YOUTH Act is a part of what is now law and for that we finally got this bipartisan focus on young adults struggling with addiction across the finish line. The opioid crisis has indelibly damaged the lives of Michiganders from every walk of life, and the effects of opioid use are especially tragic for young people with their whole lives ahead of them, said Senator Peters. Although this epidemic has already taken away countless graduations, weddings and grandchildren from affected families, I am pleased that this new law with help provide greater access to lifesaving medication-assisted treatment and put adolescents and young adults on the path to recovery. The use of certain medications such as buprenorphine has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment for opioid addiction and increases success rates for continuing treatment and recovery. MAT, which fuses behavioral therapy with buprenorphine or other medications, is a vital public health tool to prevent future loss of life for those suffering from opioid addiction. Despite an expansive body of research on the effectiveness of this treatment, MAT is still underutilized and is even less available to youth than to adults. The Capito and Peters provisions passed as part of the SUPPORT Act, legislation to increase federal agency efforts to properly address the opioid epidemic, including the effects of the crisis on children, families, and communities, researching and developing non-addictive pain killers, creating more flexibility to use telemedicine for SUD treatment, preventing drug diversion or illicit distribution of controlled substances and streamline data sharing between states. Among other provisions, the legislation requires the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to improve existing practices for preventing and treating opioid addiction, including the use of MAT and ways to overcome existing barriers to MAT for youth. The legislation will provide three-year grants to youth-focused entities for carrying out substance use disorder treatment, prevention, and recovery support services. It will expand an existing youth substance use disorder program at HHS to include services for young adults as well as children and adolescents. Senators Peters and Capito also authored an amendment in last months Labor, Health and Human Services spending bill that directs the Administrator of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to submit a report to Congress within 180 days on agency activities related to MAT. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1484,President Trump Signs Bipartisan Opioid Bill Into Law,2018-10-24,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,David McKinley,M001180,mckinley.house.gov,,,legacy,"This afternoon President Trump signed H.R. 6, the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, into law. The bill is a bipartisan response to the opioid epidemic that is devastating communities across West Virginia and the nation. The package includes four bills introduced by Rep. David B. McKinley (R-WV) to reduce repeat overdoses, encourage alternatives to opioids, expand access to safe drug disposal programs, and improve information sharing about patients' addiction history between health care providers and family members. share: f t Washington, DC This afternoon President Trump signed H.R. 6, the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, into law. The bill is a bipartisan response to the opioid epidemic that is devastating communities across West Virginia and the nation. The package includes four bills introduced by Rep. David B. McKinley (R-WV) to reduce repeat overdoses, encourage alternatives to opioids, expand access to safe drug disposal programs, and improve information sharing about patients' addiction history between health care providers and family members. The opioid epidemic is a national emergency that is devastating families and communities, said McKinley. That's why we have taken action to provide more resources to fight the crisis and adopt policies that help improve access to treatment, improve prevention, and give law enforcement the tools they need."" H.R. 6 builds on previous efforts to fight the opioid epidemic over the past two years, including the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act and the 21st Century Cures Act from 2016, the $4 billion in funding passed earlier this year to help combat the opioid crisis, and the $6.7 billion included in the recent spending bill signed into law. Simply put, this legislation will help save lives, said McKinley. Too many families are being torn apart by the horrors of opioid addiction for us to stand by. We can't solve this problem overnight, but this bill represents a serious and substantial step to turning the tide in this fight. Background: This opioid package was the product of significant bipartisan work on both sides of the Capitol. In June, the House passed 57 bills to address the opioid epidemic over the span of two weeks. After negotiations with the Senate, a final compromise was reached, which passed the House overwhelmingly on September 28. The Senate then sent the bill to the President's desk on October 3. To learn more about the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act (H.R. 6) please click here. The package includes four bills championed by McKinley: H.R. 5176, the Preventing Overdoses While in Emergency Rooms (POWER) Act: This bill was authored by McKinley and is cosponsored by Rep. Michael Doyle (D-PA). The bill provides resources for hospitals to develop protocols on discharging patients who have overdosed. This will help avoid repeat overdoses by connecting patients with peer-support specialists, and referring them to treatment and other services. H.R. 5197, the Alternatives to Opioids (ALTO) in the Emergency Department Act: This bill was authored by McKinley and Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ). The bill establishes a demonstration program to test alternative pain management protocols to limit to use of opioids in hospital emergency departments, and reduce the over-prescribing of opioids. H.R. 5695, Emmett's Law: This bill educates health care providers about information on substance abuse and overdoses they can share with family members. H.R. 5628, Access to Increased Drug Disposal Act: This bill will help improve access to safe drug disposal programs for prescription medicine. Many people become addicted due to the easy access of leftover prescription drugs. Additionally, McKinley is a co-sponsor of 13 other bills that were included in H.R. 6. You can watch McKinley's floor speech in support of H.R. 6 in June by clicking here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-attends-white-house-signing-ceremony-of_historic-opioids-legislation,Capito Attends White House Signing Ceremony of Historic Opioids Legislation,2018-10-24,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.24.18 Capito Attends White House Signing Ceremony of Historic Opioids Legislation WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today joined President Donald J. Trump at the White House as he signed the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act into law. Having put so much work into shaping this legislation, I was honored to be at the White House today as President Trump signed it into law, Senator Capito said. With the presidents signature, we are able to finally deliver on our promise for a robust, comprehensive response to the opioid epidemic that is plaguing West Virginia and so many other state across the country. For West Virginia, this law will more than double the states opioid funding because of a provision I secured to prioritize states like ours. This bill also addresses more than just addiction; it also focuses on families, prevention, education, and life after recovery. Im so proud of the work that went into this bipartisan legislation, and Im eager to see how it changes lives for the better. As a leader in the fight against opioids, Senator Capito introduced or led as a co-sponsor the following provisions in the SUPPORT Act, now law: A change to the 21st Century Cures Act State Targeted Response Grants formula that focuses federal funds on states like West Virginia that have been hit hardest by the opioid crisis. The Opioid Addiction Recovery Fraud Prevention Act, which will hold fraudulent substance abuse treatment programs and recovery centers accountable by empowering the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to bring enforcement actions to combat such scams. Language establishing Comprehensive Opioid Recovery Centers (CORCs), a new grant program to provide the full continuum of treatment for patients in areas hardest hit by the opioid crisis. Resources for communities to start or expand programs for coordination of care and treatment after an overdose, such as the successful Quick Response Teams (QRTs) that have had such success in Huntington, West Virginia, and are now expanding throughout the state. The Synthetics Trafficking & Overdose Prevention (STOP) Act, which will help prevent the shipment of synthetic opioids like fentanyl into the United States through the international mail system by imposing tough new requirements on the U.S. Postal Service and Customs and Border Protection. New resources to identify, prevent, and mitigate the effects of trauma related to the opioid epidemic among infants, children, and their families.Includes the creation of a task force to identify and disseminate trauma-informed best practices within federal grant programs; a grant program to link educational agencies with mental health systems to increase student access to evidence-based trauma support services; additional funding for the National Child Traumatic Stress Network; and the expansion of programs to increase the mental health workforce for this population. The Caring Recovery for Infants and Babies (CRIB) Act, which clarifies states ability under Medicaid to provide care for infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome in residential pediatric recovery centers like Lilys Place in Huntington, West Virginia. It also reauthorizes the Residential l Treatment for Pregnant and Postpartum Women grant program Senator Capito worked to include in CARA and includes grants to help states implement plans of safe care for substance-exposed infants included in CARA. The Using Data to Prevent Opioid Diversion Act, which will provide drug manufacturers and distributors with data to identify pharmacies that are suspiciously ordering prescription opioids and provide law enforcement the authority to hold them accountable if they fail to use this data to identify, report, and stop suspicious orders of prescription opioids. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/photos-capito-briefed-by-us-coast-guard-tours-washington-by-helicopter_,"PHOTOS: Capito Briefed by U.S. Coast Guard, Tours Washington by Helicopter",2018-10-24,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.24.18 PHOTOS: Capito Briefed by U.S. Coast Guard, Tours Washington by Helicopter WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chair of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, today was briefed by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) on their efforts in conjunction with the Department of Defense (DoD) to monitor the security of the airspace of the national capital region. Todays briefing was another reminder of how lucky we are to have the Coast Guard working on so many fronts for the safety and security and the American people, Senator Capito said. These men and women are vigilant in their watch over Washington and are fully prepared for anything that comes their way. Im grateful for all the individuals who keep our nations capital safe, and I will continue working to provide them the support they need through my subcommittee. Senator Capito participates in helicopter exercises with the United States Coast Guard over the national capital region. Flying over the national capital region. Senator Capito with Lt. Jeremy Runco of Charles Town, West Virginia. Senator Capito recommended Lt. Runco to the U.S. Naval Academy in 2003. Senator Capito thanks the Coast Guard for their work today and everyday as they keep our nations capital safe. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-announces-members-of-service-academy-selection-board-,Manchin Announces Members of Service Academy Selection Board,2018-10-24,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 24, 2018 Manchin Announces Members of Service Academy Selection Board Charleston, WV - U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today announced the members of his service academy selection board. Earlier this week, the four member panel interviewed prospective candidates who are vying for a nomination to the four military service academies: the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and the U.S. Air Force Academy. ""It is an honor to nominate hardworking and dedicated West Virginia students to the U.S. Service Academies each year and to highlight the many ways West Virginia students can enter the military while also getting a college education,"" Senator Manchin said. ""Every member of the panel brings a unique perspective to the table and I look forward to reviewing the results of the interviews when I make my nominations. I commend all of the students who interviewed with the board, and who are willing to step forward to serve our country. Their sense of patriotism shows the true spirit of West Virginia and the strength of the next generation. The interviews were conducted this week. Senator Manchin's nominations will be announced in November. Service Academy Selection Board CSM (retired) Kevin Harry - former West Virginia National Guard State Enlisted Leader Major Jason Lambert Headquarters, Marine Corps, Legislative Liaiso Rebecca Tucker Professor of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, West Virginia University Parkersburg Zahava Urecki - Legislative Correspondent, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-op-ed-highlights-how-local-efforts-contribute-to-combatting-opioid-crisis,Capito Op-Ed Highlights How Local Efforts Contribute to Combatting Opioid Crisis,2018-10-22,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.22.18 Capito Op-Ed Highlights How Local Efforts Contribute to Combatting Opioid Crisis MARTINSBURG, W.Va. In an op-ed for the Martinsburg Journal, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) explains how theSUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, which is expected to be signed into law this week,will help tackle the opioid epidemic, as well as how West Virginiaspecifically the Eastern Panhandlesexperiences with the drug crisis helped shape the comprehensive legislation. Senator Capitos op-ed follows her recent visit to the Eastern Panhandle, where one of her stops included a visit to the Boys and Girls Club of the Eastern Panhandle with Martinsburg Police Chief Maury Richards. As West Virginians know, there is no silver bullet when it comes to the opioid epidemic, but these solutions and the many, many others in the SUPPORT Act are all an important next step in this broader, ongoing fight. Rest assured that I will continue working to deliver similar solutions, and I will continue fighting for every person whose life is touched by this crisis, Senator Capito wrote in the op-ed. The full op-ed is available here and below. How local solutions can solve the national opioid crisisBy: U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) Martinsburg JournalOctober 21, 2018 As Eastern Panhandle residents know far too well, West Virginia has struggled with the opioid crisis longer and harder than most other states. While that reality has been tough on our state, it has also helped us become a leader when it comes to fighting back. West Virginians have learned a lot from our struggles with the opioid epidemic. We better understand some of the causes and how we can deal with them. Weve seen what is working and what isnt. And weve learned that the ripple effects go far beyond those struggling with addiction. Its these lessons and insights that enabled me to help shape groundbreaking legislation Congress recently passed to address the drug crisis, the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, also known as the SUPPORT Act. When thinking aboutnext stepsfor fighting the opioid epidemic, one of the first things I realized was the formula for state funding was not providing adequate resources to the hardest hit states; and I worked to make sure that funding formula was changed. As a result, the SUPPORT Act reauthorizes state grants in a way that ensures states like ours small states with big problems will begin to receive the resources we desperately need. Something else I realized was that we dont have the treatment facilities or the workforce to adequately support individuals seeking treatment. To address these needs, I worked to create a grant program establishing Comprehensive Opioid Recovery Centers in the most affected areas, and provisions that will help increase and better prepare our health care workforce. Another challenge weve seen in West Virginia involves bad actors who are taking advantage of those in crisis. Thats why I secured a provision in the SUPPORT Act to hold fraudulent substance abuse treatment programs and recovery centers accountable by empowering the Federal Trade Commission to bring enforcement actions to combat these scams. Not only will this provision help put an end to the fraudulent practices taking place, but it will also provide help to those who are trying to chart a better path toward sobriety and a successful future. Of course, its not all about dealing with challenges related to the opioid epidemic. The SUPPORT Act also focuses on many of the solutions that are working West Virginia. One great example is the Martinsburg Initiative, which is spearheaded by the Martinsburg Police Department, Berkeley County Schools, Shepherd University and the Washington/Baltimore High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. The goal of the initiative is to stem the opioid addiction problem by identifying and trying to eliminate the basic causes of drug abuse in at-risk families; and thanks to the support of a wide array of local partners such as the Boys and Girls Club of the Eastern Panhandle, its making a real difference. Last week, I had the chance to see how the initiative is having an impact during a visit with this Martinsburg Police Chief Maury Richards to the Boy and Girls Club. Having a chance to speak with staff, volunteers and the children they care for, it was very clear how much these local partnerships are helping children, strengthening families, and empowering communities. As Director of Operations Amber Glennon puts it, the kidsget to learn instead of being afraid of an officer. They learn they are really here to help and who they are. Something as simple as providing a safe place where children have an opportunity to learn and interact with law enforcement can have a really positive effect on development and help children avoid the path to addiction all together. Its that kind of environment that the Martinsburg Initiative works to cultivate and something that could also work in other communities across the country. Thats exactly why I worked to secure several provisions in the SUPPORT Act related to childhood trauma and prevention, including language to help identify, prevent, and mitigate the effects of drug-related trauma on infants, children and their families. A few examples are provisions to support the creation of a task force to identify and share trauma-informed best practices within federal grant programs, a grant program to link educational agencies with mental health systems to increase student access to support services, additional funding for the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, and the expansion of programs to increase the mental health workforce for this population. These measures will all help complement and amplify the work of efforts like the Martinsburg Initiative, and theyll enable other states to develop similar programs. As West Virginians know, there is no silver bullet when it comes to the opioid epidemic, but these solutions and the many, many others in the SUPPORT Act are all an important next step in this broader, ongoing fight. Rest assured that I will continue working to deliver similar solutions, and I will continue fighting for every person whose life is touched by this crisis. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-77-million-in-arc-funding-for-west-virginia,"Capito, Manchin Announce $7.7 Million in ARC Funding for West Virginia",2018-10-16,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.16.18 Capito, Manchin Announce $7.7 Million in ARC Funding for West Virginia WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $7,766,842 for West Virginia through the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). Funding will go to several entities across the state to support economic and workforce development effortsincluding broadband expansion, tourism development, and assistance for West Virginians affected by substance abuse. Economic development begins at the local level, where community leaders work to advance projects that help create opportunity and growth, Senator Capito said. The ARC has been an integral partner in these efforts, and I will continue to work with them to ensure our West Virginia communities have the resources they need to position their economies for success in the future and improve the lives of everyone who calls these areas home. Appalachian Regional Commission funding supports economic growth and community development efforts throughout West Virginia. Connecting West Virginia businesses, entrepreneurs and job seekers with the resources they need to succeed is a vitally important step towards further developing our economy. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee I will continue advocating for grants like these that are important investments in the future of our West Virginia communities, Senator Manchin said. Individual awards listed below: $2,034,667 Coalfield Development Corporation $1,800,000 West Virginia Forest Products Cooperative $1,499,175 Marshall University Research Corporation $1,370,000 Natural Capital Investment Fund $749,000 BridgeValley Community and Technical College $150,000 West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey $100,000 Region II Planning and Development Council $64,000 National Coal Heritage Area Authority # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-capito-announce-77-million-in-arc-funding-for-west-virginia,"Manchin, Capito Announce $7.7 Million In ARC Funding For West Virginia",2018-10-16,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 16, 2018 Manchin, Capito Announce $7.7 Million In ARC Funding For West Virginia Washington, D.C. US Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $7,766,842 of funding through the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for West Virginia for broadband expansion, tourism development, and assistance for West Virginians affected by substance abuse. The funding will go to a handful of key local organizations in the state that support economic and workforce development efforts. Appalachian Regional Commission funding supports economic growth and community development efforts throughout West Virginia. Connecting West Virginia businesses, entrepreneurs and job seekers with the resources they need to succeed is a vitally important step towards further developing our economy. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee I will continue advocating for grants like these that are important investments in the future of our West Virginia communities, Senator Manchin said. Economic development begins at the local level, where community leaders work to advance projects that help create opportunity and growth, Senator Capito said. The ARC has been an integral partner in these efforts, and I will continue to work with them to ensure our West Virginia communities have the resources they need to position their economies for success in the future and improve the lives of everyone who calls these areas home. Individual awards listed below: $2,034,667 Coalfield Development Corporation $1,800,000 West Virginia Forest Products Cooperative $1,499,175 Marshall University Research Corporation $1,370,000 Natural Capital Investment Fund $749,000 BridgeValley Community and Technical College $150,000 West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey $100,000 Region II Planning and Development Council $64,000 National Coal Heritage Area Authority # # # Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-congratulates-tom-kleeh-on-senate-confirmation,Capito Congratulates Tom Kleeh on Senate Confirmation,2018-10-11,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.11.18 Capito Congratulates Tom Kleeh on Senate Confirmation Kleeh to serve as District Judge for Northern District of West Virginia WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued the below statement congratulating Tom Kleeh after the Senate voted 65 to 30 to confirm him as District Judge on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia. Senator Capito recommended Kleeh for the position and introduced him at his confirmation hearing in April. I recommended Tom to President Trump because of his exceptional qualifications and his outstanding reputation. As Ive said since he was first nominated, I have no doubt that Tom will be a fair, diligent, and effective judge on the U.S. District Court and will make West Virginians proud as he continues working to uphold the rule of law. I was proud to support his confirmation and look forward to working together as he assumes this important new role. Id also like to thank Judge Keeley who has honorably served the Northern District for more than 25 years now. She has been an incredible example of what public service on the U.S. District Court should look like, and I know Tom will do the same. Senator Capitos full remarks during Kleehs confirmation hearing can be viewed here. A photo of Senator Capito meeting with Kleeh in her office prior to the hearing is available here. BACKGROUND Thomas S. Kleeh of West Virginia will serve as a District Judge on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia.Kleeh is a member of Steptoe & Johnson PLLC, where he has practiced as a litigator in the firms labor and employment group representing private- and public-sector clients for the last nineteen years. During that time, he has litigated hundreds of employment law and general litigation matters before federal and state courts and administrative agencies. Since 2015, Kleeh has also served as staff counsel for the Senate Judiciary Committee of the West Virginia Senate, where he has presented legislation and advised the Senate on a wide range of issues. He earned his B.S.B.A. from West Virginia University, graduating summa cum laude, and his J.D. from the West Virginia University College of Law, where he was inducted into the Order of the Coif and served as editor-in-chief of theWest Virginia Law Review. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-heinrich-introduce-public-land-recreational-opportunities-improvement-act,"Capito, Heinrich Introduce Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act",2018-10-11,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.11.18 Capito, Heinrich Introduce Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act Bipartisan bill would improve the permitting process for commercial outfitters, other businesses on public lands that fuel outdoor recreation economy WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) introduced the Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act to improve the permitting process for commercial outfitters and other businesses on public lands. By reducing the bureaucratic red tape of duplicative and ever-changing permitting requirements, the Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act will help get people back out where they belongexploring and enjoying the incredible beauty and natural resources we are fortunate to have in our country, Senator Capito said. These much-needed, bipartisan changes to federal regulations on public lands will not only help support the outdoor recreation industries, but it will also benefit the local economies they support in West Virginia and across the nation. Our public lands are where locals and visitors alike go to camp under the stars, chase bugling elk or wet a fly in a mountain stream, and they fuel the $887 billion outdoor recreation economy that directly sustains 7.6 million American jobs-many in rural communities,Senator Heinrich said.By streamlining the permitting process, the Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act will make it easier for commercial outfitters to participate in the booming outdoor recreation economy and strengthen the communities that rely on it. The Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act is supported bya wide range of organizations, including for-profit outfitters and guides, non-profit outfitters and guides, university recreation programs, and volunteer-based clubs. REI operates outdoor programs across the country and we support hundreds of vendors and nonprofits who do the same. The outdoor provider community has consistently struggled with the complexity of the federal recreational permit system,said Rebecca Bear, Director, REI Outdoor Programs and Experiences.Streamlining the application process will help outdoor organizations more rapidly get people outside and promote an outdoor life. REI and our 17 million members are grateful for Senator Heinrich and Capitos leadership. Outdated regulations in the permitting system have made it time consuming, unpredictable, and in many cases-impossible-for outdoor organizations and businesses to provide outdoor experiences for the public on public lands,said Alex Kosseff, executive director at the American Mountain Guides Association.The Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act removes old roadblocks to facilitated outdoor recreation and enables more Americans to get outside and enjoy public lands. Accessing America's public lands will be a lot easier when this bill passes,said Jamie Williams, president of The Wilderness Society.Senators Heinrich and Capito deserve a lot of credit for developing a bill that eliminates bureaucratic red tape making it easier for youth programs, university recreation programs, nonprofit organizations and outfitters and guides to apply for and obtain recreational permits for public lands. The Wilderness Society is committed to connecting more Americans with the outdoors and this bill will help do just that. Outdoor recreation helps children build positive relationships and develop a sense of achievement and belonging. It is an essential part of the Y's approach to youth development,said Kevin Washington, president and CEO of YMCA of the USA.The current process for recreational permitting is complicated and restrictive. This legislation will simplify the process, enabling the Y and others to share nature's wonders with many more kids and families and instill in our youth a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors. We thank Senators Heinrich and Capito for their passionate leadership in easing the recreational permitting process for our public lands. Members of the outdoor industry and the conservation community supporting the bill includeAdventure WV, American Mountain Guides Association,Angler's Covey,Appalachian Mountain Guides, Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE), Association for Experiential Education, Exum Mountain Guides, Las Cruces Green Chamber of Commerce, Los Alamos Mountaineers, Mazamas, Mountain Skills Rock Guides, New River Mountain Guides, National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), Outdoor Alliance, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), Outdoor Research, REI, Santa Fe Climbing Center, YMCA, Seneca Rocks Climbing School, Sierra Mountain Center, Suntoucher Mountain Guides, The Mountaineers, The Wilderness Society, West Virginia University, and Western Spirit Cycling. The Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act streamlines and improves the commercial permitting process for federal agencies: Updates the authorization of feesfor special recreation permits currently contained in the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA). Directs agencies to identify opportunities for permitting process improvement, including complying with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to reduce duplicative analyses. Creates flexibilityby allowing permit holders to engage in activities that are substantially similar to the permitted activity and establishing temporary permits and a pilot program for return of unused service days to other permittees. Clarifies permit administrationby directing agencies to determine whether recreation permits are available at each public land unit and to issue timely notifications and decisions to permittees. Streamlines the process for multi-jurisdictional tripsby authorizing, at the discretion of the agencies, the use of a single joint permit for permitted trips involving more than one land management agency. Makes permit fees fair for businessby excluding from the calculation of a permit fee any revenue associated outside of the public land unit covered by the permit, such as transportation costs. Improves Forest Service (FS) permitsby accounting for the fact that recreation demand can vary considerably across a season and during off-peak periods when making allocation decisions and allows the FS to waive a use review for an uncontrollable interrupted period, such as wildfire. Makes public land access easier for state universities, city recreation departments, and school districtsby exempting a permit holder from indemnification requirements if the permittee is prohibited from providing indemnification to the United States by state or local law, as is the case for most government agencies. Encourages best practices for liability protectionby allowing recreation permit holders the option to use exculpatory agreements between the permit holder and their customers. A copy of the bill is availablehere. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-announces-more-than-49-million-for-airports-in-parkersburg-and-beckley,Manchin Announces More Than $4.9 Million For Airports In Parkersburg And Beckley,2018-10-11,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 11, 2018 Manchin Announces More Than $4.9 Million For Airports In Parkersburg And Beckley Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that the Raleigh County Memorial Airport (BKW) in Beckley and the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport (PKB) in Parkersburg will receive $4,962,541in funding through the Department of Transportation (DOT) Alternate Essential Air Service program (AEAS). The two airports have formed a partnership to enter into a contract with Contour Airlines, which will serve both communities to the same hub, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). Our airports in West Virginia are an important source of economic activity in our state. Air travel is critical for economic growth and our state's tourism industry. Ensuring that Beckley and Parkersburg have safe, reliable air service will open up the two cities and their surrounding regions to more visitors and new economic opportunities. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee, I always have our West Virginia airports in mind and will continue to ensure they receive the funding they need to grow, Senator Joe Manchin. Glen Kelly, manager at the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport, I look forward to working with Contour Airlines and bringing jet service to Parkersburg and the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport. We are very excited about Contour's completion rate of over 98% and its on-time rate of 95% on its routes around the country. I believe this reliable service can bring back our business customers and serve our leisure travelers for years to come. Tom Cochrane, manager at the Raleigh County Memorial Airport, This is a positive move in the right direction for Beckley and the Raleigh County Memorial Airport and we believe it will impact our community in a positive way. We have never had jet service in Beckley, which should allow us to be more prepared to support the World Scout Jamboree next year and provide the region with a more dependable carrier moving forward. Senator Manchin recently voted for a five-year reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which included reauthorization of the Essential Air Service Program and the Small Community Air Service Development Program. The EAS program serves over 170 small communities in the U.S, providing an essential connection to major airports and metropolitan areas throughout the country. Without this important program, communities like Beckley and Parkersburg would lose air service, as airlines would move to only serve more profitable markets, potentially reducing economic opportunities available to communities already struggling to stay connected to the national economy. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-heinrich-introduce-public-land-recreational-opportunities-improvement-act-,"Capito, Heinrich Introduce Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act",2018-10-10,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.10.18 Capito, Heinrich Introduce Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act Bipartisan bill would improve the permitting process for commercial outfitters and other businesses on public lands that fuel outdoor recreation economy WASHINGTON, D.C. -U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) introduced the Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act to improve the permitting process for commercial outfitters and other businesses on public lands. By reducing the bureaucratic red tape of duplicative and ever-changing permitting requirements, the Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act will help get people back out where they belongexploring and enjoying the incredible beauty and natural resources we are fortunate to have in our country, saidSenator Capito. These much-needed, bipartisan changes to federal regulations on public lands will not only help support the outdoor recreation industries, but it will also benefit the local economies they support in West Virginia and across the nation. ""Our public lands are where locals and visitors alike go to camp under the stars, chase bugling elk or wet a fly in a mountain stream, and they fuel the $887 billion outdoor recreation economy that directly sustains 7.6 million American jobs-many in rural communities,""said Senator Heinrich. ""By streamlining the permitting process, the Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act will make it easier for commercial outfitters to participate in the booming outdoor recreation economy and strengthen the communities that rely on it."" The Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act is supported bya wide range of organizations, including for-profit outfitters and guides, non-profit outfitters and guides, university recreation programs, and volunteer-based clubs. ""REI operates outdoor programs across the country and we support hundreds of vendors and nonprofits who do the same. The outdoor provider community has consistently struggled with the complexity of the federal recreational permit system,""said Rebecca Bear, Director, REI Outdoor Programs and Experiences.""Streamlining the application process will help outdoor organizations more rapidly get people outside and promote an outdoor life. REI and our 17 million members are grateful for Senator Heinrich and Capito's leadership."" ""Outdated regulations in the permitting system have made it time consuming, unpredictable, and in many cases-impossible-for outdoor organizations and businesses to provide outdoor experiences for the public on public lands,""said Alex Kosseff, Executive Director at the American Mountain Guides Association.""The Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act removes old roadblocks to facilitated outdoor recreation and enables more Americans to get outside and enjoy public lands."" ""Accessing America's public lands will be a lot easier when this bill passes,""said Jamie Williams, President of The Wilderness Society.""Senators Heinrich and Capito deserve a lot of credit for developing a bill that eliminates bureaucratic red tape making it easier for youth programs, university recreation programs, nonprofit organizations and outfitters and guides to apply for and obtain recreational permits for public lands. The Wilderness Society is committed to connecting more Americans with the outdoors and this bill will help do just that."" ""Outdoor recreation helps children build positive relationships and develop a sense of achievement and belonging. It is an essential part of the Y's approach to youth development,""said Kevin Washington, President and CEO, YMCA of the USA.""The current process for recreational permitting is complicated and restrictive. This legislation will simplify the process, enabling the Y and others to share nature's wonders with many more kids and families and instill in our youth a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors. We thank Senators Heinrich and Capito for their passionate leadership in easing the recreational permitting process for our public lands."" Members of the outdoor industry and the conservation community supporting the bill includeAdventure WV, American Mountain Guides Association,Angler's Covey,Appalachian Mountain Guides, Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE), Association for Experiential Education, Exum Mountain Guides, Las Cruces Green Chamber of Commerce, Los Alamos Mountaineers, Mazamas, Mountain Skills Rock Guides, New River Mountain Guides, National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), Outdoor Alliance, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), Outdoor Research, REI, Santa Fe Climbing Center, YMCA, Seneca Rocks Climbing School, Sierra Mountain Center, Suntoucher Mountain Guides, The Mountaineers, The Wilderness Society, West Virginia University, and Western Spirit Cycling. The Public Land Recreational Opportunities Improvement Act streamlines and improves the commercial permitting process for federal agencies: Updates the authorization of feesfor special recreation permits currently contained in the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA). Directs agencies toidentify opportunities for permitting process improvement, including complying with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to reduce duplicative analyses. Creates flexibilityby allowing permit holders to engage in activities that are substantially similar to the permitted activity, and establishing temporary permits and a pilot program for return of unused service days to other permittees. Clarifies permit administrationby directing agencies to determine whether recreation permits are available at each public land unit, and to issue timely notifications and decisions to permittees. Streamlines the process for multi-jurisdictional tripsby authorizing, at the discretion of the agencies, the use of a single joint permit for permitted trips involving more than one land management agency. Makes permit fees fair for businessby excludingfrom the calculation of a permit fee any revenue associated outside of the public land unit covered by the permit, such as transportation costs. Improves Forest Service (FS) permitsby accounting for the fact that recreation demand can vary considerably across a season and during off-peak periods when making allocation decisions and allows the FS to waive a use review for an uncontrollable interrupted period, such as wildfire. Makes public land access easier for state universities, city recreation departments, and school districtsby exempting a permit holder from indemnification requirements if the permittee is prohibited from providing indemnification to the United States by state or local law, as is the case for most government agencies. Encourages best practices for liability protectionby allowing recreation permit holders the option to use exculpatory agreements between the permit holder and their customers. A copy of the bill is availablehere. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-joins-secretary-ross-in-announcing-67-million-for-business-development-job-growth,"Capito Joins Secretary Ross in Announcing $6.7 Million for Business Development, Job Growth",2018-10-10,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.10.18 Capito Joins Secretary Ross in Announcing $6.7 Million for Business Development, Job Growth WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today joined U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross in announcing that the departments Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding $6.7 million in grants to West Virginia to support local business development and job growth efforts. According to grantee estimates, the projects are expected to create or retain more than 1,430 jobs, while generating $35 million in private investment. Since 2015, Senator Capito has worked with EDA to educate the agency about West Virginias economic needs and encourage more investment in the state. As a result of these efforts, EDA has since hired a state representative for West Virginia to help structure projects. EDA has also invested in 35 projects in the state, totaling $34,158,861. These projects are proposed to create roughly 2,872 jobs, retain 1,669 jobs, and impact nearly every county in the state. Ive always said that economic growth starts at the local level, which is why its important that we continue working to revitalize and support our small communities in West Virginia, Senator Capito said. For years, Ive worked directly with the Department of Commerce to encourage a renewed focus and drive investment in West Virginia so we can spur economic development and boost our economy. I am thrilled that the EDA has decided to once again invest in our state, and Im proud of the role I played in making todays announcement possible. Not only will these investments lead to more than a thousand new jobs for West Virginians looking for work now, but they will also lead to significant private investment that will benefit the regions economy over the long term. The Trump Administration is committed to creating new opportunities for American workers and building the infrastructure necessary for sustainable growth, Secretary Ross said. These projects will help support the efforts of local leaders to diversify and grow the states economy. Were extremely pleased that the EDA is funding these projects in West Virginia, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice said. It will not only improve the quality of life for our citizens, but it will provide opportunities for economic development as we continue to grow and move forward in West Virginia. Again, we thank Secretary Ross and the Trump Administration for investing in West Virginia. These grants will encourage economic development and improve the quality of life in communities across the state, U.S. Representative David McKinley (R-W.Va.) said. Diversifying the economy of West Virginia needs to be a top priority. We will continue to work with the EDA and other federal agencies to bring as many resources to bear as possible to help West Virginia achieve that goal. More information on the EDA investments are included below: McDowell County Public Service District in Welch will receive $1.75 million to assist in the replacement of antiquated water systems. The improved water infrastructure will serve 32 businesses that currently rely on inadequate and unsafe water in the communities of Northfork, Keystone, Kyle, Upland, and Powhatan. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to help create 99 jobs, retain 65 existing jobs, and generate $1 million in private investment. The project was developed in cooperation with the EDA-supported Economic Development District, Region 1 Planning and Development Council. Benedum Airport Authority of Bridgeport will receive $1.7 million to support the development of shovel-ready industrial sites and a building outside of the floodplain to aid expansion of the aerospace industry and support local disaster economic recovery efforts in the wake of severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslidesthat impacted the region in July 2017. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to help create or retain 340 jobs and generate more than $8 million in private investment. The project was developed in cooperation with the EDA-supported Economic Development District, Region VI Planning and Development Commission. Buffalo Creek Public Service District of Amherstdale will receive $1.5 million to support commercial and economic development by establishing a sanitary sewer collection system that will adjoin the newly constructed four-lane highway in Logan County. The improvements will also assist with the continued development of the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create 250 jobs and spur $10 million in private investment. The project was developed in cooperation with the EDA-supported Economic Development District, Region 2 Planning and Development Council. The City of Bluefield will receive $1 million to drive economic development and diversification efforts in the region by supporting the construction of a 15-acre multi-purpose, multi-tenant property on the border of West Virginia and Virginia. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create 250 jobs and spur $11 million in private investment. The project was developed in cooperation with the EDA-support Economic Development District, Region 1 Planning and Development Council. The Branchland-Midkiff Public Service District in Branchland will receive $540,000 to upgrade the current water service system to serve 32 existing businesses and increase capacity for future development in Lincoln County. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create or retain 174 jobs. The project was developed in cooperation with the EDA-supported Economic Development District (EDD), Region 2 Economic Development District. Coalfield Development Corporation in Wayne will receive $222,000 to assist with a strategic planning initiative to ensure that Coalfields many resources and partnerships are being used most efficiently and effectively to maximize the regions potential to create sustainable, well-paying jobs. This plan will identify opportunities and approaches for expanding and enhancing the successful workforce initiatives currently underway. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create or retain 260 jobs and spur $5 million in private investment. The project was made possible by regional planning efforts led by the Region 1 and Region 2 Economic Development Districts. The McDowell County Public Service District, Buffalo Creek Public Service District, City of Bluefield, Branchland-Midkiff Public Service District, and Coalfield Development Corporation projects are being funded under the 2018 Assistance to Coal Communities (ACC 2108) program, through which EDA will award funds on a competitive basis to assist communities severely impacted by the declining use of coal through activities and programs that support economic diversification, job creation, capital investment, workforce development, and re-employment opportunities. The Benedum Airport Authority project is being funded under theBipartisan Budget Act of 2018 (PL 115-123), in which Congress appropriated to EDA $600 million in additional Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) Program funds for disaster relief and recovery as a result of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, wildfires and other calendar year 2017 natural disasters under theStafford Act. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-supports-passage-of-comprehensive-water-infrastructure-bill,Capito Supports Passage of Comprehensive Water Infrastructure Bill,2018-10-10,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.10.18 Capito Supports Passage of Comprehensive Water Infrastructure Bill Bipartisan legislation includes several Capito provisions to improve wastewater systems, support water workforce development WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW), today issued the below statement after voting to pass Americas Water Infrastructure Act. The Senate approved the comprehensive, bipartisan legislation by a 99-1 vote. Strengthening and improving Americas infrastructure has traditionally been a bipartisan priority, and thats because of the enormous benefits provided by safe and reliable infrastructure. This bipartisan legislation makes important changes and updates that will help improve the health and wellbeing of West Virginians and others in communities across the country. It cuts red tape to help our state and local leaders prioritize and complete critical water infrastructure projects that will promote economic growth. It also allows us to more effectively and responsibly use our limited federal dollars and increases the impact those resources will have on Rural America. As a member of the EPW Committee, Im proud of the role I played in delivering the comprehensive legislation and the way we worked across the aisle to do so. Im also excited that I was able to secure several provisions that I know will have a positive impact in West Virginiaincluding measures to grow and improve our water workforce and to provide our communities with better access to reliable wastewater systems. These measures, combined with the many other legislative solutions in this bill, will benefit Americans living in every single state, and I look forward to President Trump signing it into law. Provisions Senator Capito secured in the final legislation include: The creation of a workforce development program to address the challenges of an aging water workforce through grants for education, job training, and apprenticeships. Language directing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to study the challenges facing intractable water systemssuch as those in former coal camps in Southern West Virginiain which there is no or effectively no entity managing a municipal water system. Legislation to provide grants for residential decentralized wastewater systems. Additional information on Americas Water Infrastructure Act is available here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-secures-more-than-44-billion-for-water-infrastructure,Manchin Secures More Than $4.4 Billion For Water Infrastructure,2018-10-10,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 10, 2018 Manchin Secures More Than $4.4 Billion For Water Infrastructure Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) secured an authorization of $4.4 billion in appropriations for capitalization grants awarded to state drinking water revolving loan funds in the America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018. The appropriations will be distributed over three years: $1.174 billion in fiscal year 2019, $1.3 billion in fiscal year 2020, and $1.95 billion in fiscal year 2021. I'm proud the Senate was able to come together to pass this common sense legislation to prioritize water infrastructure across our country. West Virginia has an estimated $1.16 billion in drinking water infrastructure needs that will have to be addressed in the next 20 years. This bipartisan legislation will support rural communities working to improve and repair both their drinking water systems. Every West Virginian deserves access to clean water and I'm proud to have fought for this funding to ensure every community has that access, Senator Manchin said. Senator Manchin worked to include the following provisions in the America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018: Clean Drinking Water Reauthorizes the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program. The WIFIA program provides low cost loans to clean drinking water projects. Establishes a workforce development program for the water utility workforce, which is a rapidly aging workforce. Senator Manchin was a cosponsor to the standalone legislation that was incorporated into the final bill text. Promotes Hydropower Development: Senator Manchin also secured provisions to promote hydropower on existing non-powered dams. The America's Water Infrastructure Act directs the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to develop a list of existing non-powered dams with the greatest potential for hydropower development. The legislation also improves the licensing and permitting process that for too long has limited the development of hydropower on existing dams. Nationwide, as many as 12 gigawatts of new hydropower could be added by retrofitting existing dam's non-powered dams to produce electricity. ### 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-death-of-legendary-fairmont-state-basketball-coach-joe-retton,Manchin Statement On Death Of Legendary Fairmont State Basketball Coach Joe Retton,2018-10-10,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 10, 2018 Manchin Statement On Death Of Legendary Fairmont State Basketball Coach Joe Retton Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement following the passing of legendary Fairmont State basketball coach Joe Retton. Coach Jo-Jo Retton was a fierce competitor. He never let me forget the time Farmington beat Barracksville in basketball. But I learned more from Coach Retton about character and what it means to be a person of responsibility than I ever did about basketball. He was a mentor throughout my life and a fierce advocate for those less fortunate. This is a huge loss to Marion County and to the state of West Virginia. Gayle and I join the entire state in praying for Retton family as they mourn the loss of this incredible man. ### 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-statement-on-passing-of-wood-county-delegate-frank-deem,Manchin Statement On Passing Of Wood County Delegate Frank Deem,2018-10-10,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 10, 2018 Manchin Statement On Passing Of Wood County Delegate Frank Deem Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement following the passing of Wood County Delegate Frank Deem. Wood County and all of West Virginia are better off because of the longtime service of Delegate Frank Deem. Frank's time in the Navy greatly shaped him and he was a war horse with one of the strongest moral compasses I have ever known. Frank didn't care about whether you were a Democrat or a Republican. If something was right, it was right. If it was wrong, it was wrong. When Frank agreed with you he'd be your greatest supporter. But if he disagreed with you he'd sure let you know. I've known few other friends and public servants who have so fiercely represented the people they were elected to serve. We don't come across men like Frank Deem that often anymore. Gayle and I send our hearts out to Becky and the entire Deem family. ### 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-for-resolution-to-end-junk-plans-that-put-pre-existing-conditions-protections-at-risk,Manchin Votes For Resolution To End Junk Plans That Put Pre-Existing Conditions Protections At Risk,2018-10-10,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 10, 2018 Manchin Votes For Resolution To End Junk Plans That Put Pre-Existing Conditions Protections At Risk Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) cosponsored and voted for a resolution that would have overturned the Administration's expansion of junk insurance plans that can deny coverage to people with pre-existing conditions and don't have to provide coverage for essential health services like prescription drugs, emergency room visits and maternity care. The resolution failed 50-50. As a Senator from a state with nearly 800,000 West Virginians with pre-existing conditions, I cannot allow a rewrite of health insurance rules that will put their coverage at risk. These misleading junk insurance plans can deny coverage to West Virginians with pre-existing conditions and don't have to provide essential health services like prescription drugs, emergency room visits and maternity care. I am fighting to ensure that every West Virginian with pre-existing conditions, and those who may someday have a pre-existing condition, cannot be denied healthcare coverage or be charged more for their coverage. I am disappointed this CRA failed, but I will not stop fighting to protect West Virginians' healthcare, Senator Manchin said. Senator Manchin has been hosting roundtables with West Virginians with pre-existing conditions, religious leaders, small business owners, and community officials in West Virginia to discuss the ongoing threat to pre-existing conditions protections. Right now, the Attorney General of West Virginia is suing to allow insurance companies to once again deny coverage to West Virginians with pre-existing conditions. The lawsuit, Texas vs. United States, is challenging the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act, including the law's consumer protections for people with pre-existing conditions, and the Department of Justice has declined to defend these critical pre-existing condition protections. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-leads-bipartisan-call-for-increased-focus-on-reducing-maternal-mortality-in-the-us,Capito Leads Bipartisan Call for Increased Focus on Reducing Maternal Mortality in the U.S.,2018-10-09,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.09.18 Capito Leads Bipartisan Call for Increased Focus on Reducing Maternal Mortality in the U.S. 14 senators urge HHS, CMS to address racial disparities, hospital preparedness WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.),Tom Carper (D-Del.), Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), and Tim Scott (R-S.C.) today led a bipartisan group of senators in calling for an increased focus on reducing maternal mortality in the United States and improving health outcomes for all mothers and children. In a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma, 14 Democrat and Republican senators requested that the department and agency prioritize developing strategies to reduce maternal mortality rates, including for pregnant women and mothers enrolled in Medicaid and the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP). From 2000 to 2014, the rate of maternal mortality, defined as the death of a woman while pregnant or during the one-year period following the date of the end of pregnancy, increased by 26 percent in the United States. According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the United States ranks 30 of 31 in maternal mortality among developed nations. Research shows that roughly 60 percent of maternal deaths in the United States could have been prevented with improved patient care and education, standardized protocols, and timely intervention. The senators highlighted the racial and ethnic disparities in maternal and infant health in the United States. For instance, African-American women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes as compared to other women in the United States. American Indian and Alaskan Native women also fare worse than white women with approximately twice as many pregnancy-related deaths per 100,000 live births. The senators continued, Research indicates that numerous factors may contribute to these glaring health disparities, including barriers to accessing necessary prenatal and postnatal care, a growing prevalence of chronic conditions, maternal stress, inadequate training for health care providers, racial bias, and social determinants of health. We therefore also ask that you review existing data and provide us with recommendations about what can be done at the federal, state, and local levels to reduce mortality and improve health outcomes for all mothers and their children, regardless of their racial and ethnic background, income level, or educational attainment. The bipartisan lawmakers also called attention to effective policies that some hospitals have developed to better prepare for pregnancy-related complications that could serve as a model for hospitals nationwide. The senators wrote, Although some states have taken significant steps to overcome training, education, and system barriers to reducing maternal mortality, not all hospitals and birth centers have implemented common protocols and comprehensive quality measures to help ensure safe labor and delivery, prenatal and postnatal care. Where protocols exist, they may not be integrated into health care delivery systems and hospitals; systems of accountability and support for patients and clinicians are often lacking. Joining Senators Carper, Capito, Nelson, and Scott were Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Marco Rubio (R-Fl.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Dean Heller (R-Nev.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), and Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.). The text of the letter can be found below and here. October 9, 2018 The Honorable Alex Azar Secretary U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Hubert H. Humphrey Building 200 Independence Ave. SW Washington, DC 20201 The Honorable Seema Verma Administrator Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services 7500 Security Blvd. Baltimore, MD 21244 Dear Secretary Azar and Administrator Verma: From 2000 to 2014, the rate of maternal mortality, defined as the death of a woman while pregnant or during the one-year period following the date of the end of pregnancy, increased by 26 percent in the United States. This troubling trend makes the United States an outlier among every other developed country. We write to you to request that your Department and Agency focus on strategies to reduce maternal mortality rates in the United States, including for pregnant women and mothers enrolled in Medicaid and the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Racial and ethnic disparities in maternal and infant health are especially of concern.African-American women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes as compared to other women in the United States. The mortality rate among African-American infants is more than two times higher than other infants. American Indian and Alaskan Native women also fare worse than white women with approximately twice as many pregnancy-related deaths per 100,000 live births. Research indicates that numerous factors may contribute to these glaring health disparities, including barriers to accessing necessary pre- and post-natal care, a growing prevalence of chronic conditions, maternal stress, inadequate training for health care providers, racial bias, and social determinants of health. We therefore also ask that you review existing data and provide us with recommendations about what can be done at the federal, state, and local levels to reduce mortality and improve health outcomes for all mothers and their children, regardless of their racial and ethnic background, income level, or educational attainment. The frustration and urgency over the high rate of maternal mortality is compounded by research determining that roughly 60 percent of maternal deaths in the United States could be prevented through improvements for individual patient care and education, standardized protocols, and timely interventions. Moreover, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality determined that severe maternal mortality rates may be higher in some hospitals compared to others, indicating that some hospitals have developed ways to better prepare for pregnancy-related complications that could be adopted nationwide. Although some states have taken significant steps to overcome training, education, and system barriers to reducing maternal mortality, not all hospitals and birth centers have implemented common protocols and comprehensive quality measures to help ensure safe labor and delivery, prenatal and postnatal care. Where protocols exist, they may not be integrated into health care delivery systems and hospitals; systems of accountability and support for patients and clinicians are often lacking. Furthermore, programs to address the social determinants of health beyond the clinic can sometimes be important to ensure that women are getting the care they need, when they need it. With these challenges in mind, we ask that you respond to the questions below by November 1, 2018: 1. When controlling for health, socio-economic and other key factors such as the fact that individuals in Medicaid are often poorer, sicker, and more likely to suffer from the effects of health disparities, what is the rate of maternal and infant mortality for individuals covered by Medicaid and CHIP? Are there limitations or inconsistencies in this data? If so, how can data quality be ensured? If this data is unavailable, what are the barriers to collecting this data? 2. CMS has identified 13 maternal and perinatal health measures for voluntary reporting by state Medicaid and CHIP agencies. How many states are consistently reporting this data in 2018? How is this data being used to inform CMS guidance and policy development? 3. How many states have implemented a value-based payment approach and/or new maternal care delivery model (e.g. group prenatal care, maternity care homes, birth centers) to improve maternal and infant health outcomes? How have states used such payment approaches and models to track and improve the prevalence of poor maternal health outcomes, such as preeclampsia, cardiomyopathy, blood clots, hemorrhage, and depression, and associated risk factors? Have certain value-based payment approaches or care delivery models resulted in improvements in the rate of occurrence and treatment of these conditions? 4. While CMS has issued guidance allowing state Medicaid programs to reimburse for the services of nurse-midwives and other maternal health professionals, uptake of these services remains low. How do states and CMS evaluate the quality of prenatal and postnatal care provided by various types of health care providers? 5. Since 2000, what economic, social, and health policy factors may have contributed to the increase in maternal mortality rates? 6. What other initiatives are the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and CMS undertaking to reduce the rate of maternal mortality and morbidity, particularly in programs like Medicaid and CHIP? For example, how does CMS collaborate with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on maternal mortality issues? How does CMS use the information generated by maternal mortality review committees to inform the administration of Medicaid and CHIP? We thank you for your attention to these important matters and we look forward to working with you to ensure the health of all mothers and their newborn children. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-resolution-defends-postal-service-against-privatization-,Manchin Resolution Defends Postal Service Against Privatization,2018-10-08,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 08, 2018 Manchin Resolution Defends Postal Service Against Privatization Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) co-sponsored a Senate resolution opposing the privatization of the United States Postal Service (USPS). Under previous consolidation implemented by the USPS under the Post Office Structure Plan (POST) in 2012, 478 post offices around West Virginia had their hours drastically reduced to as little as two hours per day. Given that the POST Plan was undertaken after significant backlash against the previous proposal to close thousands of post offices around the country, it stands to reason that nearly the nearly 500 post offices affected by this plan would be vulnerable to closure if USPS were privatized. In West Virginia, especially in our rural communities, we understand the importance of our post offices. In many small towns, they are the lifelines of their communities and a way to stay connected. They are more than just places to send and receive mail. I will continue defending rural communities across West Virginia and that includes fighting the privatization of the postal service, Senator Manchin said. Read the full resolution here. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-votes-to-confirm-supreme-court-nominee-kavanaugh,Capito Votes to Confirm Supreme Court Nominee Kavanaugh,2018-10-06,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.06.18 Capito Votes to Confirm Supreme Court Nominee Kavanaugh WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued the following statement after voting to confirm Judge Brett Kavanaugh to serve as an associate justice on the U.S. Supreme Court: I was proud to vote to confirm Judge Kavanaugh as our newest Supreme Court justice today, and I have no doubt that he will serve fairly and judiciously. I have remained supportive of Judge Kavanaugh throughout the confirmation process because I believe that his exemplary record as a jurist, his respect for the Constitution and the rule of law, and his character and devotion to public service make him immensely qualified and deserving of this important responsibility. Given all of the facts that have been presented and the numerous conversations Ive had with Judge Kavanaugh myself, I am firm in my belief that President Trump made the right choice in nominating him, and todays vote was an important acknowledgment of that. Senator Capitos previous statement of support is available here, and an op-ed on Judge Kavanaughs qualifications is available here. A video of Senator Capito speaking on the Senate floor in support of Judge Kavanaugh is available here, and photos of a meeting in her office are available here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-to-support-supreme-court-nominee-brett-kavanaugh-,Manchin to Support Supreme Court Nominee Brett Kavanaugh,2018-10-05,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 05, 2018 Manchin to Support Supreme Court Nominee Brett Kavanaugh Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on his decision to support Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. From the start of this process, I promised my constituents that I would look seriously at Judge Kavanaugh's record and cast my vote based on the facts I have before me and what is best for West Virginia. I met with the nominee for over two hours, attended his hearings, spoke with constitutional experts, and heard from thousands of West Virginians. I have reservations about this vote given the serious accusations against Judge Kavanaugh and the temperament he displayed in the hearing and my heart goes out to anyone who has experienced any type of sexual assault in their life. However, based on all of the information I have available to me, including the recently completed FBI report, I have found Judge Kavanaugh to be a qualified jurist who will follow the Constitution and determine cases based on the legal findings before him. I do hope that Judge Kavanaugh will not allow the partisan nature this process took to follow him onto the court. With respect to any cases that may come before him impacting the 800,000 West Virginians with pre-existing conditions, Judge Kavanaugh assured me personally that he would consider the human impacts and approach any decision with surgical precision to avoid unintended consequences. That is why I voted to confirm Judge Kavanaugh's nomination to serve on the Supreme Court because I believe he will rule in a manner that is consistent with our Constitution. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-remains-supportive-of-kavanaugh-nomination-will-vote-to-confirm,"Capito Remains Supportive of Kavanaugh Nomination, Will Vote to Confirm",2018-10-04,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.04.18 Capito Remains Supportive of Kavanaugh Nomination, Will Vote to Confirm WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued the following statement after being briefed on and reviewing a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) supplemental background investigation file related to the nomination of U.S. Supreme Court nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh: After careful consideration and having reviewed the facts presented, as well as the supplemental FBI file, I plan to vote to confirm Judge Kavanaugh. Since President Trump announced his nomination, Ive been consistently impressed with Judge Kavanaughs commitment to upholding the Constitution as written; respecting the rule of law; and being a good husband, father, and public servant. Thats why I have been supportive of him throughout the confirmation process and why he continues to have my support. I also said from the beginning that Dr. Fords allegations should be taken seriously, as should any allegation of sexual assault, and I believe Chairman Grassley and his staff on the Judiciary Committee have investigated and addressed them fairly and transparently. This is not a decision I took lightly, but it is one I believe in strongly. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-send-letter-calling-on-epa-to_improve-the-water-quality-certification-process,Senators Send Letter Calling on EPA to Improve the Water Quality Certification Process,2018-10-04,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.04.18 Senators Send Letter Calling on EPA to Improve the Water Quality Certification Process WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. SenatorsShelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW), Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), and Steve Daines (R-Mont.), sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting AdministratorAndrew Wheeler regarding implementation of Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. In the letter, the senators ask Wheeler to provide implementation direction to federal agencies regarding Section 401, in light of recent abuses by certain states. Read the full letter here and below. Dear Acting Administrator Wheeler: We are writing to request your review of the federal governments implementation of Clean Water Act Section 401 to ensure it is consistent with the statute. We ask that you work with other federal agencies to determine whether new clarifying guidance or regulations are needed in light of recent abuses of the Section 401 process by certain states. In the last few years, a troubling trend directed at fossil energy projects has arisen. A select number of states have hijacked Section 401 to delay or block the development of natural gas pipelines and a coal export terminal. While the focus of these abuses today is fossil energy, the approach could be used to target any type of project that is disfavored politically. To address this concern, we introduced S. 3303, the Water Quality Certification Improvement Act of 2018. This bill clarifies appropriate considerations and processes to evaluate water quality impacts under Section 401. Recent obstruction of energy infrastructure projects has directly threatened national security by forcing reliance on foreign energy and increased air emissions. This obstruction has hurt American workers,states,and tribes. We are firmly committed to states and tribes central role in protecting water resources, as we have maintained in other contexts.In the few instances mentioned above, Section 401 is currently being used inappropriately to fight projects rather than protect water quality. As the primary agency responsible for implementation of the Clean Water Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plays a critical role in ensuring that the statute is fairly and uniformly applied. To our knowledge, the most recent EPA document regarding Section 401 is a 2010 interim handbook issued by the prior administration. EPA did not ask for public comment on the handbook, and it contains clear misstatements of law. For example, the handbook suggests that a states reasonable period of time to act on a request for a water quality certification begins to run when an application is complete. This is incorrect. That period begins to run when the state receives the application. We ask that you take immediate steps to review this handbook and other EPA materials. We also request that that EPA as the lead federal agency work with other federal agencies to determine what government-wide direction is needed, including the need for new clarifying guidance or regulations. All parties must have a clear understanding of the appropriate scope of water quality certification decisions. The federal permits and licenses that trigger the water quality certification process are often issued by other federal agencies, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. EPA must ensure that these agencies have consistent, coordinated direction. Background Information: On July 31, 2018, Barrasso, Inhofe, Capito, Enzi, and Daines introduced the Water Quality Certification Improvement Act of 2018. The bill amends section 401 of the Clean Water Act. The legislation makes several key clarifications to existing law about the appropriate scope of review for a water quality certification. It would also place procedural guardrails and requirements on states as they process requests for certification to prevent future abuses. On August 16, 2018, the EPW committee held a legislative hearing titled, Hearing to Examine Implementation of Clean Water Act Section 401 and S. 3303, the Water Quality Certification Improvement Act of 2018. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1472,Comprehensive Opioid Bill Heads to Presidents Desk,2018-10-03,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,David McKinley,M001180,mckinley.house.gov,,,legacy,"This afternoon the Senate passed H.R. 6, the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, a bipartisan response to the opioid epidemic that is devastating communities across West Virginia and the nation. The legislation will boost access to treatment, improve prevention, and help efforts to fight dangerous synthetic drugs like fentanyl. The package includes four bills championed by Rep. David B. McKinley (R-WV) to reduce repeat overdoses, encourage alternatives to opioids, expand access to safe drug disposal programs, and improve information sharing among health professionals. share: f t This afternoon the Senate passed H.R. 6, the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, a bipartisan response to the opioid epidemic that is devastating communities across West Virginia and the nation. The legislation will boost access to treatment, improve prevention, and help efforts to fight dangerous synthetic drugs like fentanyl. The package includes four bills championed by Rep. David B. McKinley (R-WV) to reduce repeat overdoses, encourage alternatives to opioids, expand access to safe drug disposal programs, and improve information sharing among health professionals. Many Americans are understandably frustrated by the partisanship and dysfunction they see in Washington these days, said McKinley. But here is an example of both parties coming together address a challenging national crisis: the opioid epidemic. Simply put this bill will help save lives and help families and communities address the devastation caused by drug addiction. H.R. 6, which passed the House last week, builds on previous efforts to fight the opioid epidemic over the past two years, including the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act and the 21st Century Cures Act from last Congress, the $4 billion in funding passed earlier this year to help combat the opioid crisis, and the $6.7 billion included in the appropriations package signed into law last week. They represent the most significant congressional effort against a single drug crisis in history. Many of the policies that are included are a direct response to ideas the came up in the dozens of meetings we've held across the First District on opioids, said McKinley. Whether it's encouraging alternatives to opioids or making sure health professionals know a patient's history of addiction, we were able to put our mark on this important legislation. Background: This opioid package was the product of significant bipartisan work on both sides of the Capitol. In June, the House passed more than fifty bills to address the opioid epidemic over the span of two weeks. After negotiations with the Senate, a final compromise was reached last week and passed the House floor overwhelmingly on September 28. To learn more about the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act (H.R. 6) please click here. The package includes four bills championed by McKinley: H.R. 5176, the Preventing Overdoses While in Emergency Rooms (POWER) Act. This bill was authored by McKinley and is cosponsored by Rep. Michael Doyle (D-PA). The bill provides resources for hospitals to develop protocols on discharging patients who have overdosed. This will help avoid repeat overdoses by connecting patients with peer-support specialists, and referring them to treatment and other services. H.R. 5197, the Alternatives to Opioids (ALTO) in the Emergency Department Act. This bill was authored by McKinley and Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ). The bill establishes a demonstration program to test alternative pain management protocols to limit to use of opioids in hospital emergency departments, and reduce the over-prescribing of opioids. H.R. 5695, Emmett's Law. This bill educates health care providers about information on substance abuse and overdoses they can share with family members. H.R. 5628, Access to Increased Drug Disposal Act. This bill will help improve access to safe drug disposal programs for prescription medicine. Many people become addicted due to the easy access of leftover prescription drugs. Additionally, McKinley is a co-sponsor of 13 other bills that were included in H.R. 6.You can watch McKinley's floor speech in support of H.R. 6 in June by clicking here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-votes-to-deliver-historic-opioid-relief-for-west-virginia,Capito Votes to Deliver Historic Opioid Relief for West Virginia,2018-10-03,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.03.18 Capito Votes to Deliver Historic Opioid Relief for West Virginia VIDEO: Speaks on Senate floor to highlight critical provisions secured in final legislation WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today voted to pass the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Actcomprehensive legislation combining a bill recently passed by the U.S. House of Representative and the Opioid Crisis Response Act, which the Senate passed with overwhelming bipartisan support last week. The bill delivers a wide range of legislative solutions that will help strengthen efforts to fight the opioid epidemic and now goes to President Trumps desk for his signature. Senator Capito issued the following statement after the Senate passed this final bill by a vote of 98-1: The SUPPORT Act is a meaningful step in our ongoing effort to combat the opioid epidemic in West Virginia and across the nation. Our state understands far too well how this crisis is tearing apart families and communities, but our experience has also helped inform efforts to fight back. We have discovered what is working, what is not, and, perhaps most importantly, that the ripple effects go far beyond those struggling with addiction. I worked hard to make sure that this legislation reflects many of those lessons. This groundbreaking, comprehensive legislation will help deliver critical funding to states hit the hardest like West Virginia. It provides support for families, infants, children, and law enforcement and takes a real all-hands-on-deck approach to addressing both the causes and consequences of the drug crisis. Im incredibly proud to have secured so many critical provisions in the final bill and to have played a role in helping shape the legislative package we sent to President Trump. While there is no silver bullet when it comes to the opioid epidemic, I know this will help make a meaningful difference, and I will continue fighting to deliver similar solutions for West Virginians and all those affected. Earlier today, Senator Capito spoke on the Senate floor about West Virginias key role in shaping this legislation and the provisions included that are based on legislation she introduced or led as a co-sponsor. You can watch the full video here or by clicking on the image below. Senator Capito introduced or led as a co-sponsor the following provisions: A change to the 21st Century Cures Act State Targeted Response Grants formula that focuses federal funds on states like West Virginia that have been hit hardest by the opioid crisis. The Opioid Addiction Recovery Fraud Prevention Act, which will hold fraudulent substance abuse treatment programs and recovery centers accountable by empowering the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to bring enforcement actions to combat such scams. Language establishing Comprehensive Opioid Recovery Centers (CORCs), a new grant program to provide the full continuum of treatment for patients in areas hardest hit by the opioid crisis. Resources for communities to start or expand programs for coordination of care and treatment after an overdose, such as the successful Quick Response Teams (QRTs) that have had such success in Huntington, West Virginia, and are now expanding throughout the state. The Synthetics Trafficking & Overdose Prevention (STOP) Act, which will help prevent the shipment of synthetic opioids like fentanyl into the United States through the international mail system by imposing tough new requirements on the U.S. Postal Service and Customs and Border Protection. New resources to identify, prevent, and mitigate the effects of trauma related to the opioid epidemic among infants, children, and their families. Includes the creation of a task force to identify and disseminate trauma-informed best practices within federal grant programs; a grant program to link educational agencies with mental health systems to increase student access to evidence-based trauma support services; additional funding for the National Child Traumatic Stress Network; and the expansion of programs to increase the mental health workforce for this population. The Caring Recovery for Infants and Babies (CRIB) Act, which clarifies states ability under Medicaid to provide care for infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome in residential pediatric recovery centers like Lilys Place in Huntington, West Virginia. It also reauthorizes the Residential l Treatment for Pregnant and Postpartum Women grant program Senator Capito worked to include in CARA and includes grants to help states implement plans of safe care for substance-exposed infants included in CARA. The Using Data to Prevent Opioid Diversion Act, which will provide drug manufacturers and distributors with data to identify pharmacies that are suspiciously ordering prescription opioids and provide law enforcement the authority to hold them accountable if they fail to use this data to identify, report, and stop suspicious orders of prescription opioids. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-votes-to-pass-faa-reauthorization,Capito Votes to Pass FAA Reauthorization,2018-10-03,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.03.18 Capito Votes to Pass FAA Reauthorization Bill will support West Virginia airports, improve air travel, enhance safety and security WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, today voted in support of legislation reauthorizing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for five years, the longest since 1982. Senator Capito issued the following statement after the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 93-6: West Virginias airports employ hundreds of people and bring millions in revenue into our state. This legislation will provide critical support to those airports while also modernizing air travel to make it easier, safer, and more secure for West Virginians and Americans across the country. Im proud to be a member of the committee that drafted this legislation and to support its passage today. Not only does this reauthorization modernize airport infrastructure, improve customer experience, and extend efforts to combat human trafficking, but it also delivers supplemental funding to help those affected by Hurricane Florence as they work to recover. Im glad to be sending this bill to President Trumps desk to provide our airports and passengers with greater certainty for the next five years. The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 is a five-year reauthorization of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) programs that invests in airport infrastructure, promotes safety and American leadership in aviation, and strengthens consumer serviceincluding provisions that will: Provide stable funding for the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) which issues grants to airports of all sizes for planning and development. Reform the Federal Contract Tower Program. Prohibit involuntary bumping of passengers who have already boarded. Direct the FAA to set minimum leg room requirements. Extend training requirements to recognize human trafficking. Require a review and update of the FAAs cybersecurity plan. Accelerate deployment of advanced security screening technologies like explosive detection canines. More information on the legislation is available here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-announces-more-than-760k-in-hhs-funding-for-food-hub-in-kanawha-county,Manchin Announces More Than $760K In HHS Funding For Food Hub In Kanawha County,2018-10-03,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 03, 2018 Manchin Announces More Than $760K In HHS Funding For Food Hub In Kanawha County Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service (HHS) has awarded $760,416 to a community development group in West Virginia. The funding will go to the Kanawha Institute for Social Research & Action, or KISRA, to implement the Appalachian Food Enterprise, a food hub that will promote community health, support local food production, local farmers, and create jobs. Senator Manchin sent a letter of support to the Department of Health and Human Services encouraging funding for this project and the benefits it can offer West Virginia. Not only does this project offer food security and promote West Virginia farm enterprises, but it also creates jobs for those who need the work the most, Senator Manchin said. This funding will offer West Virginia economic, public health, and nutrition benefits that are sustainable and can heal the community. Reggie Jones, CEO, KISRA said, This project is centered on the idea that our local and regional food system represents an underutilized opportunity for regional economic growth. The Appalachian Food Enterprise is positioned to make a significant impact on the health and economy of our area by improving access and availability to healthy, nutritious foods while also creating employment opportunities for low-income residents and other groups struggling to secure sustainable employment. The project will create up to 40 full-time, permanent jobs for low-income community residents. These residents will be identified through partnerships with the local TANF agency and workforce board. Each job provides career growth potential as promotions will occur from within the organization. ### 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-final-passage-of-opioid-package-that-will-ensure-west-virginians-ger-triple-the-funding-this-year-to-fight-the-opioid-crisis,Manchin Applauds Final Passage Of Opioid Package That Will Ensure West Virginians Ger Triple The Funding This Year To Fight The Opioid Crisis,2018-10-03,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 03, 2018 Manchin Applauds Final Passage Of Opioid Package That Will Ensure West Virginians Ger Triple The Funding This Year To Fight The Opioid Crisis Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) applauds the final passage of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, which includes a provision that Senator Manchin pushed for that will ensure that West Virginia receives its fair share of federal funding to fight the opioid epidemic. Originally, much of the funding that states received to fight the opioid epidemic was based heavily on the number of overdose deaths rather than the rate of overdose deaths. Unfortunately, this disproportionally hurt states like West Virginia, which has a small population but has the highest need. Senator Manchin fought during the Appropriations process and conference committee to ensure that states that have been hit the hardest by the opioid epidemic receive more funding. I applaud my House and Senate colleagues for working together to pass this important legislation that will help our country and West Virginia better fight and end the opioid epidemic. This legislation will have a real impact on millions of people's lives and is a shining example of what we can achieve when we work together in regular order. West Virginia has the highest overdose rate per capita of any state in our nation and the impacts of this epidemic can be felt in every family, every community and every corner of our state. That's why I made sure that this bill included a set aside for states like West Virginia where mortality rates are through the roof. This language more than tripled the amount of funding coming to our state for this coming year, and I will continue to fight to ensure West Virginia is getting our fair share of funding to fight this epidemic, Senator Manchin said. Senator Manchin worked to include the following provisions in the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act: Opioid Funding for hard hit states: Reauthorizes and makes improvements to the State Targeted Opioid Response (STR) program to help states better fight the opioid epidemic, including updates to the formula. Improving communication and information sharing between medical professionals and patients: Includes language to better facilitate quality coordinated care for individuals with a history of substance use disorder treatment, but does not go far enough. Improving Access to Treatment and Recovery: The bill establishes a grant program to create comprehensive opioid recovery centers in hard hit communities. Improving FDA Response to the Opioid Crisis: Strengthens the FDA's response to the crisis in several ways including by supporting the development of non-opioid pain treatments and by pushing the agency to do more to consider the risks of drugs that may be misused or abused. Examining Opioid Prescription Limits: Requires the Secretary of HHS to issue a report on limiting opioid prescriptions. Improving Youth Prevention and Recovery Services: Includes grant funding to strengthen youth prevention and recovery services, particularly in schools. Consumer and Provider Education: Advance awareness of the risks of opioid misuse and abuse by strengthening CDC's efforts to educate consumers and providers. Trauma-Informed Care for Youth: Includes funding to support programs that offer trauma-informed care for youth. Due to Senator Manchin's efforts, the bill will specifically allow funding to go to programs like West Virginia's Handle with Care program, which helps connect students who have been involved in traumatic events in the home, particularly related to substance use, to trauma informed care in the schools. Improving Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs: Encourages providers to use PDMPs and improving interoperability between PDMPs and health IT systems. Improving NIH's Response: Encouraging research into non-addictive pain-killers, pain care, and signs/risk factors of substance use disorders. Improving Coordination between FDA & CBP: Improving FDA's tools for working with CBP to improve the detection and seizure of illegal drugs, including fentanyl. Expands access to medication assisted treatment: Allows a wider array of medical professionals to prescribe MAT and codifies the higher number of patients that can be served by an individual doctor. Also provides funding to educate medical professionals on prescribing MAT. Protecting people seeking treatment: Clarifies the Federal Trade Commission's authority to bring enforcement actions against opioid treatment scams, including deceptive treatment claims and bogus products. Support for communities and workers hit by the epidemic: Provides resources to communities and workers to provide treatment services and job training/transition services for those in recovery. Improves Medicare and Medicaid policy to address the epidemic: Strengthens efforts to promote treatment and reduce opioid abuse among Medicare beneficiaries. Support for babies with NAS: It clarifies that Medicaid can paid for babies with neo-natal abstinence syndrome in residential pediatric recovery centers. Reauthorizes critical drug prevention programs including: ONDCP, the Drug-Free Communities grant program, the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program, and the drug court program. Reforms DEA Quotas: Requires DEA to consider diversion, abuse, overdose deaths and public health impacts when setting quotas and requires them to justify any quota increase. Provider education: Requires HHS and DOJ to complete a plan for educating and training medical practitioners on prescribing controlled substances. DEA enforcement: Requires the pharma industry to design systems to identify and report suspicious orders and requires DEA to establish a database for the collection of all suspicious orders. ### 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-to-pass-faa-reauthorization-helping-west-virginia-airports-and-disaster-response,Manchin Votes To Pass FAA Reauthorization Helping West Virginia Airports & Disaster Response,2018-10-03,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 03, 2018 Manchin Votes To Pass FAA Reauthorization Helping West Virginia Airports & Disaster Response Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today voted to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).The bill includes a five-year reauthorization of the FAA; a three-year reauthorization of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at $7.9 billion; a four-year reauthorization of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB); and the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018, which reforms and reauthorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The bill also includes language Senator Manchin authored to give higher priority for certain types of projects for mountaintop airports. Today I voted to pass this important reauthorization bill to ensure that rural airports in West Virginia receive funding they need to continue operations in the Mountain State, Senator Manchin said. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight to make sure that the funding levels in this FAA bill will benefit West Virginia airports.West Virginia airports rely on this important funding, which is why I support important programs to the state like the Essential Air Service and Small Community Air Service Development programs. And it's why I included language in this year's bill to level the playing field for airports constrained by mountainous terrain and other difficult topography. Rural airports across the state provide an important service to West Virginians and West Virginia businesses by connecting them to the rest of the country, helping businesses export their products, and increasing tourism to our great state. The FAA reauthorization will help West Virginia by: Reauthorizing the Essential Air Service Program and the Small Community Air Service Development Program Maintaining Airport Improvement Program (AIP) levels at $3.35 billion per year through 2023 Authorizing a new infrastructure program for small and medium airports outside of metropolitan areas financed through the general fund. This program, which is modeled on the additional funding provided by the Appropriations Committee in FY18 and FY19 and supported by Senator Manchin in his work on the Transportation, Housing & Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, will receive $1.02 billion in FY19 and increase each year to $1.11 billion by FY23. Grants will be capped at a federal share of 80%. Expanding the Pilot's Bill of Rights by strengthening legal protections for pilots, improving the Notices for Airmen (NOTAM) program, and other provisions. Including language authored by Senator Manchin to make it easier for mountaintop airports like those in West Virginia to compete for grants for mass grading and other structural support. Requiring FEMA to put more emphasis on pre-disaster planning by requiring it to devote part of its overall funding relief to early mitigation activities. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-announces-bill-designating-new-river-gorge-a-national-park,Capito Announces Bill Designating New River Gorge a National Park,2018-10-02,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.02.18 Capito Announces Bill Designating New River Gorge a National Park Legislation would help encourage tourism, boost economy WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today introduced legislation that would change the New River Gorges designation from the New River Gorge National River to the New River Gorge National Park. The designation currently includes more than 70,000 acres of land along 53 miles of the New River, stretching from the Bluestone Dam to Hawks Nest Lake. The New River Gorge is a special part of West Virginia and a real source of pride for our state, Senator Capito said. Whether its cheering on the BASE jumpers at Bridge Day, experiencing the thrill of world-class white water rafting, or taking in the beautiful panoramic views, the New River Gorge provides unlimited opportunities for thousands of visitors each year. Redesignating the National River to a National Park will shine a light on the New River Gorge and its many offerings to help drive tourism and spur the local and regional economy. For full text of the legislation, click here. For more information on the New River Gorge, click here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-46-million-in-doj-funding-for-west-virginia,"Capito, Manchin Announce $4.6 Million in DOJ Funding for West Virginia",2018-10-02,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.02.18 Capito, Manchin Announce $4.6 Million in DOJ Funding for West Virginia WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $4,629,701 for West Virginia through the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Funding comes through several DOJ programs and will support a variety of law enforcement and research activitiesincluding recordkeeping, youth safety, support for human trafficking victims, and forensic research. A comprehensive approach to keeping West Virginia communities safe is dependent on ensuring our law enforcement and public officials have the records, research, and resources they need to protect the public, Senator Capito said. It is also includes helping victims of crimes, like human trafficking, recover from these crimes and traumatic experiences. The DOJ is a crucial partner in these efforts, and I am glad to see this funding come to West Virginia. Im glad to see this investment from the Department of Justice in the safety of West Virginia communities. This funding from DOJ will support law enforcement officials through additional education programs and resources. It will also support resources for victims of crime so West Virginians can begin healing from their experiences. I will continue fighting for these important resources as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Manchin said. Individual awards listed below: $1,202,617 West Virginia Supreme Court through the NICS Act Record Improvement Program (Bureau of Justice Statistics). $531,560 West Virginia Division of Justice and Community Services through the National Criminal History Improvement Program (Bureau of Justice Statistics). $500,000 West Virginia State Police through the Internet Crimes Against Children: Strengthening Investigative Tools and Technology for Combatting Child Exploitation program (Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention). $500,000 West Virginia Department of Education through the STOP School Violence Prevention and Mental Health Training Program (Bureau of Justice Assistance). $462,767 West Virginia State Police through the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force program (Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention). $455,803 Young Womens Christian Association of Wheeling through the Comprehensive Services for Victims of All Forms of Human Trafficking program (Office for Victims of Crime). $379,394 West Virginia University Research Corporation through the Research and Development in Forensic Science for Criminal Justice Purposes program (National Institute of Justice). $368,415 West Virginia University Research Corporation through the Research and Development in Forensic Science for Criminal Justice Purposes program (National Institute of Justice). $100,000 West Virginia University through the Graduate Research Fellowship in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (National Institute of Justice). $60,459 West Virginia Division of Natural Resources through the Body-Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program (Bureau of Justice Assistance). $41,686 Jackson County Board of Education through the STOP School Violence Prevention and Mental Health Training Program (Bureau of Justice Assistance). $27,000 Mingo County through the Body-Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program (Bureau of Justice Assistance). # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-and-capito-announce-46-million-in-doj-funding-for-west-virginia-,Manchin and Capito Announce $4.6 Million in DOJ Funding for West Virginia,2018-10-02,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 02, 2018 Manchin and Capito Announce $4.6 Million in DOJ Funding for West Virginia WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $4,629,701 for West Virginia through the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Funding comes through several DOJ programs and will support a variety of law enforcement and research activitiesincluding recordkeeping, youth safety, support for human trafficking victims, and forensic research. I'm glad to see this investment from the Department of Justice in the safety of West Virginia communities. This funding from DOJ will support law enforcement officials through additional education programs and resources. It will also support resources for victims of crime so West Virginians can begin healing from their experiences. I will continue fighting for these important resources as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee,Senator Manchin said. A comprehensive approach to keeping West Virginia communities safe is dependent on ensuring our law enforcement and public officials have the records, research, and resources they need to protect the public, Senator Capito said. It also includes helping victims of crimes, like human trafficking, recover from these traumatic experiences. The DOJ is a crucial partner in these efforts, and I am glad to see this funding come to West Virginia. Individual awards listed below: $1,202,617 West Virginia Supreme Court through the NICS Act Record Improvement Program (Bureau of Justice Statistics). $531,560 West Virginia Division of Justice and Community Services through the National Criminal History Improvement Program (Bureau of Justice Statistics). $500,000 West Virginia State Police through the Internet Crimes Against Children: Strengthening Investigative Tools and Technology for Combatting Child Exploitation program (Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention). $500,000 West Virginia Department of Education through the STOP School Violence Prevention and Mental Health Training Program (Bureau of Justice Assistance). $462,767 West Virginia State Police through the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force program (Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention). $455,803 Young Women's Christian Association of Wheeling through the Comprehensive Services for Victims of All Forms of Human Trafficking program (Office for Victims of Crime). $379,394 West Virginia University Research Corporation through the Research and Development in Forensic Science for Criminal Justice Purposes program (National Institute of Justice). $368,415 West Virginia University Research Corporation through the Research and Development in Forensic Science for Criminal Justice Purposes program (National Institute of Justice). $100,000 West Virginia University through the Graduate Research Fellowship in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (National Institute of Justice). $60,459 West Virginia Division of Natural Resources through the Body-Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program (Bureau of Justice Assistance). $41,686 Jackson County Board of Education through the STOP School Violence Prevention and Mental Health Training Program (Bureau of Justice Assistance). $27,000 Mingo County through the Body-Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program (Bureau of Justice Assistance). # # # 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-permanently-reauthorize-lwcf-approved-by-energy-and-natural-resources-committee,Manchin Bill To Permanently Reauthorize LWCF Approved By Energy & Natural Resources Committee,2018-10-02,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 02, 2018 Manchin Bill To Permanently Reauthorize LWCF Approved By Energy & Natural Resources Committee Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin's (D-WV) bill, the Land and Water Conservation Authorization and Funding Act (S. 569), was approved by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. This bill would make permanent the authorization for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). For decades, LWCF funds have made West Virginia even more wild and wonderful for all of us to enjoy and escape the daily hustle and bustle of our everyday lives for a chance to experience the outdoor recreation opportunities our wonderful state has to offer. Since LWCF was established, $241 million in LWCF funds have been used to increase access in the Monongahela National Forest, Harpers Ferry, and the New River Gorge National River, among others. In fact, LWCF funds paid for every single public access point along the Lower and Middle Gauley River, in West Virginia, an area used by over 50,000 people per year. As a native West Virginian and outdoor enthusiast, I know just how important our Wild and Wonderful outdoor heritage is to our great state and I am pleased we were able to come together and deliver solutions for our constituents, and I look forward to passing these bills on the floor, Senator Manchin said. The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee also approved Senator Manchin's bill, the Restore Our Parks Act (S. 3172), which would address the deferred maintenance backlog of the National Park Service. In West Virginia, there is nearly $64 million in deferred maintenance at the national park service managed areas. To watch a video of Senator Manchin urging the committee to approve the legislation, 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-congratulates-blue-ribbon-west-virginia-schools,Manchin Congratulates Blue Ribbon West Virginia Schools,2018-10-02,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 02, 2018 Manchin Congratulates Blue Ribbon West Virginia Schools Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) congratulates three West Virginia schools recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2018. U. S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos named 349 public and private schools for their overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups, demonstrating that all students can achieve to high levels. I am proud that three elementary schools in the Mountain State are getting well-deserved praise for their hard work to prepare our children for the future, Senator Manchin said. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program represents the culmination of the hard work of our students, educators, families and communities. I am glad to see these efforts celebrated. Throughout its 36-year history, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has affirmed the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging content. The award flag gracing a school's building has been widely recognized by everyone from parents to policymakers as a symbol of exemplary teaching and learning. Representatives from each awarded school will recognized at a ceremony on November 7th and 8th in Washington, DC. Each school will be presented with an award plaque and a flag as symbols of their accomplishments. The recipient schools are listed below: Allen T. Allison Elementary School in Chester East Lynn Elementary School in East Lynn Mt. Lookout Elementary School in Mt. Lookout ### 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-congratulates-blue-ribbon-west-virginia-schools-,Manchin Congratulates Blue Ribbon West Virginia Schools,2018-10-02,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 02, 2018 Manchin Congratulates Blue Ribbon West Virginia Schools Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) congratulates three West Virginia schools recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2018. U. S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos named 349 public and private schools for their overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups, demonstrating that all students can achieve to high levels. I am proud that three elementary schools in the Mountain State are getting well-deserved praise for their hard work to prepare our children for the future, Senator Manchin said. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program represents the culmination of the hard work of our students, educators, families and communities. I am glad to see these efforts celebrated. Throughout its 36-year history, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has affirmed the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging content. The award flag gracing a school's building has been widely recognized by everyone from parents to policymakers as a symbol of exemplary teaching and learning. Representatives from each awarded school will recognized at a ceremony on November 7th and 8th in Washington, DC. Each school will be presented with an award plaque and a flag as symbols of their accomplishments. The recipient schools are listed below: Allen T. Allison Elementary School in Chester East Lynn Elementary School in East Lynn Mt. Lookout Elementary School in Mt. Lookout ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-announces-32-million-for-west-virginia-fire-departments,Capito Announces $3.2 Million for West Virginia Fire Departments,2018-10-01,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.01.18 Capito Announces $3.2 Million for West Virginia Fire Departments WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chairman of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, today announced $3,258,095 for several fire departments in West Virginia through the U.S. Department of Homeland Securitys (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Funding comes through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program and will support the purchase of equipment and other appurtenances. Every day, career and volunteer firefighters across West Virginia risk their own safety to respond to emergencies, Senator Capito said. From serving on the front lines of the opioid epidemic to fighting fires, these men and women save lives and perform an important service to West Virginians. As the chairman of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, I will continue to ensure first responders have the resources they need to safely serve their communities. Individual awards listed below: $885,910 Montgomery Fire Department $504,574 Teays Valley Fire Department $439,862 Winfield Volunteer Fire Department $204,000 Nutter Fort Volunteer Fire Department $176,810 Slanesville Volunteer Fire Company $168,096 Augusta Volunteer Fire Company $144,762 Independent Fire Company $125,715 Fairlea Volunteer Fire Department $99,750 Sissonville Fire Department $82,667 Pennsboro Volunteer Fire Department $61,275 Prichard Volunteer Fire Department $60,267 Beech Creek Volunteer Fire Department $59,363 Tyler Mountain Volunteer Fire Department $53,048 Northfork Community Volunteer Fire Department $47,496 Culloden Volunteer Fire Department $46,153 New Martinsville Fire Department $36,667 McKinleyville Volunteer Fire Department $30,688 Henlawson Volunteer Fire Department $19,048 Mineral Wells Volunteer Fire Department $6,953 Romney Fire Company $4,248 Saint Albans Fire Department $743 Whitmer Volunteer Fire Department # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-casey-op-ed-highlights-efforts-to-empower-inspire-young-west-virginia-women,"Capito, Casey Op-Ed Highlights Efforts to Empower, Inspire Young West Virginia Women",2018-10-01,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.01.18 Capito, Casey Op-Ed Highlights Efforts to Empower, Inspire Young West Virginia Women WASHINGTON, D.C. In an op-ed for The Exponent Telegram, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Girl Scouts of Black Diamond Council Chief Executive Officer Beth Casey highlighted the importance of empowering young West Virginia women and inspiring them to become future leaders. As the first woman elected to represent West Virginia in the U.S. Senate, Senator Capito has worked to promote female leadership and empowerment through a variety of effortsincluding her Girls Rise Up program, which she launched in 2015 and has brought to elementary schools across West Virginia. We need to help our girls and young women develop the leadership skills they need to be active participants in our growing economy and to succeed professionally. By doing so, we can help not only the next generation of female leaders, but we can also harness economic success for our families, our state, and beyond [As] West Virginians compete in the American marketplace and with companies worldwide, this is a crucial moment for our state to tap into the power of girls and to invest in and leverage their talents, skills, and vision, Senator Capito and Casey explained in the op-ed. The full op-ed is available here and below. Girls West Virginias Great Untapped Power SourceBy: U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Beth Casey The Exponent TelegramSeptember 30, 2018 From coal and natural gas production to the automotive, aerospace, biotech industries and beyond, when you think of West Virginia, you cant help but think about the resources that power our country. However, one thing that might not necessarily be top of mind is one of our greatest, largely untapped resources girls and their incredible potential. According to the 2017 annual report of the West Virginia Womens Commission, among all 50 states and the District of Columbia, West Virginia ranks 51st when it comes to the number of women with a college degree, 51st in the percentage of women who are engaged in the labor force, and 39th in the number of women who hold professional titles. West Virginia also has significant underrepresentation of women in its state legislature and on state boards and commissions. We need to do better. We need to help our girls and young women develop the leadership skills they need to be active participants in our growing economy and to succeed professionally. By doing so, we can help not only the next generation of female leaders, but we can also harness economic success for our families, our state, and beyond. As a United States senator, Girl Scout alum and the CEO of Girl Scouts of Black Diamond here in West Virginia, we know firsthand what girls can achieve when they feel encouraged, empowered, and supported. And as West Virginians compete in the American marketplace and with companies worldwide, this is a crucial moment for our state to tap into the power of girls and to invest in and leverage their talents, skills, and vision. Fortunately, there are ways we can promote girls and help them develop into the leaders we need. Girl Scouts remains a strong presence in West Virginia and across the country. The organization is a place where everything is designed with and for todays girls so that they can become tomorrows leaders. The organization is combining the best of its legacy experiences like outdoor adventure, camping, and the Girl Scout Cookie Program with forward-thinking programming in STEM, including computer science, computational thinking and engineering, to ensure it offers relevant, meaningful, one-of-a-kind experiences for todays girls. Girl Scouts of Black Diamond incorporates exciting, 21st century programming that offers girls hands-on skills training in the industries of tomorrow. Large fall events Wizarding World, Camp Creepy and Haunted Gisco are all heavily STEM-focused, and the Girl Zone Day Camps revolve around fun, science-based activities. This past year, the group held State of Girl events at West Virginia University and Marshall University with subject matter experts from across the state to discuss the health and well-being of girls in our region. The organization is applying time-tested, research-backed methods that speak to todays girls and are designed to cater to the strengths of girls leadership development. For one, Girl Scouts knows that preparing more female leaders in West Virginia and across the country means starting young and making sure that todays girls are acquiring the courage, confidence and host of skills theyll need to take the reins of leadership in the decades to come. At the same time, efforts like Senator Capitos West Virginia Girls Rise Up program are also helping to shape and encourage young women in our state. Through the initiative, Senator Capito travels to elementary schools across West Virginia speaking to fifth grade girls about the importance of education, physical fitness, and self-confidence sometimes bringing along special guests like NASA astronaut Dr. Peggy Whitson to inspire the girls and highlight the opportunities available to them in STEM fields. The idea behind all of these visits and the goal of the program itself is to show West Virginia girls how much potential they have and to encourage them to unlock it. West Virginia is in a prime position to leverage the capacity, creativity and energy of girls and young women. And Girl Scouts remains one of the best ways to unleash the leadership potential of girls girls who can become the future drivers of our economy in West Virginia and the future leaders of our communities, our country, and the world, by encouraging them to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals. But we cant do it alone. It will take the combined efforts of a great many of us to help young girls develop into successful women who will lead our country to new heights and make our world a better place. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-more-than-300k-for-west-virginia-economic-development-project,"Capito, Manchin Announce More Than $300K for West Virginia Economic Development Project",2018-10-01,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.01.18 Capito, Manchin Announce More Than $300K for West Virginia Economic Development Project WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $301,811 from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for rural economic development projects in Martinsburg, Lewisburg, Charleston, Keyser, Talcott, and Parkersburg. West Virginias small businesses are the backbone of our states economy, Senator Capito said. Entrepreneurs and small business owners take risks to create opportunity in their communities and help grow new industries in West Virginia. The USDA is a critical partner for these men and women, and this funding will help them succeed while also fostering the next generation of business owners. Im excited to see this investment in economic development projects throughout the state from the Department of Agriculture, Senator Manchin said. From training programs for formerly incarcerated citizens and Veterans, to agriculture business development and expanding broadband coverage, these projects will have a direct impact on our West Virginia communities. I will continue advocating for this kind of investments as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Individual Awards Listed Below: $22,500 Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport in Martinsburg: This Rural Development investment will be used to complete an economic impact study for the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport located in Martinsburg, West Virginia. The purpose of the study is to assess the economic value that the airport has on the local and regional economy of the Eastern Panhandle and surrounding area. $29,796 Innovative Community Solutions, Inc. in Martinsburg: This Rural Development investment will be used to continue an entrepreneurship and business leadership training program in Berkeley County. The program will serve formerly incarcerated individuals and veterans. Grant funds will be used to cover costs associated with personnel involved in delivering the training, equipment, and supplies to be purchased. It is anticipated that this project will create 22 jobs for this region. $50,000 Greenbrier County Health Alliance in Lewisburg: This Rural Development investment will be used for the development of the Local Foods Skill Center and Waste Not Produce Market in Lewisburg, West Virginia. Funds from this grant award will be used to support personnel costs, supplies, and contractual expenses. The project is expected to assist a minimum of three businesses/farmers and create 16 jobs in this region. The Greenbrier County Health Alliance began as a community engagement strategy that originated from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, Center for Rural and Community Health. $50,000 West Virginia National Guard Foundation in Charleston: This Rural Development investment will be used to provide education and technical support to rural businesses. The training will include both on-farm and off-farm agriculture and agriculture business development through the creation of educational curriculum that would assist participants in all aspects of new business startup and management. This project is expected to assist 15 veteran farmers/businesses and create five jobs. $50,000 Mineral County Development Authority in Keyser: This Rural Development investment will be used to support the purchase of equipment and installation costs associated with the extension of 100Mpbs + broadband service to the Fort Ashby Business Park located in Mineral County. This project will provide high-speed internet access to commercial businesses located in the park. The project is also expected to assist local officials in attracting new businesses to the area that could potentially result in the creation of an estimated 45 indirect jobs. $49,515 Canaan Valley Institute in Talcott: This Rural Development investment will be used to develop a hydroponics system to train entrepreneurs and farmers in nontraditional growing methods known as hydroponics. The project will include training and contractual costs to install the hydroponics system, including equipment and costs to retrofit an existing structure for the hydroponics system. This project is expected to create three jobs for this region. $50,000 Solar Energy Solutions in Parkersburg: This Rural Development investment will be used for the purchase and installation of a 133,894 kW solar array on the Williamstown High School. This project will replace 149,660 kWh (21 percent) per year and realize $12,224 of saving per year. The purpose of this funding program is to assist farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses in developing renewable energy systems and in making energy efficiency improvements to their operations. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-more-than-55-million-in-doj-funding-for-west-virginia,"Capito, Manchin Announce More Than $5.5 Million in DOJ Funding for West Virginia",2018-10-01,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.01.18 Capito, Manchin Announce More Than $5.5 Million in DOJ Funding for West Virginia Includes resources to help children affected by opioid epidemic WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $5,583,112 for West Virginia through the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Funding will support services for children adversely impacted by the opioid crisis and its related crime, as well as for those currently struggling with addiction. It will also support the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault crimes, and improve engagement with victims. As we continue to give our men and women in law enforcement the tools they need to bring drug dealers and violent criminals to justice, we must also remember the innocent victims of crime who may be affected by illegal acts, Senator Capito said. The opioid crisis has brought its own unique issues to West Virginia, and we have worked in Congress to support local leaders as they reach out to those struggling with addiction and their families. This funding is a step toward offering a more holistic response to this crisis and violent crime in general, and I will continue to work with my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to ensure West Virginia communities have the resources to respond to crime. Every corner of the Mountain State has been impacted by the opioid epidemic. Our families and communities need our support as we overcome this epidemic. Im glad to see this significant investment in programs that do just that. On the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue advocating for these resources for West Virginians, Senator Manchin said. Individual awards listed below: $1,300,000 West Virginia Division of Justice and Community Services through the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Site-based Program. $1,000,000 West Virginia Division of Justice and Community Services through the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative. $920,308 West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources through the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Site-based Program. $750,000 Child Protect of Mercer County, Inc. through the Enhancing Community Responses to the Opioid Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims program. $750,000 Marshall University Research Corporation through the Enhancing Community Responses to the Opioid Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims program. $549,726 Legal Aid of West Virginia through the Enhancing Community Responses to the Opioid Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims program. $313,078 Monongalia County Child Advocacy Center, Inc. through the Enhancing Community Responses to the Opioid Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims program. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-and-capito-announce-more-than-300k-for-west-virginia-economic-development-projects-,Manchin and Capito Announce More Than $300K for West Virginia Economic Development Projects,2018-10-01,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 01, 2018 Manchin and Capito Announce More Than $300K for West Virginia Economic Development Projects Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $301,811 from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for rural economic development projects in Martinsburg, Lewisburg, Charleston, Keyser, Talcott and Parkersburg. I'm excited to see this investment in economic development projects throughout the state from the Department of Agriculture, Senator Manchin said. From training programs for formerly incarcerated citizens and Veterans, to agriculture business development and expanding broadband coverage, these projects will have a direct impact on our West Virginia communities. I will continue advocating for this kind of investments as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. West Virginia's small businesses are the backbone of our state's economy, Senator Capito said. Entrepreneurs and small business owners take risks to create opportunity in their communities and help grow new industries in West Virginia. The USDA is a critical partner for these men and women, and this funding will help them succeed while also fostering the next generation of business owners. Individual Awards Listed Below: $22,500 Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport in Martinsburg: This Rural Development investment will be used to complete an economic impact study for the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport located in Martinsburg, West Virginia. The purpose of the study is to assess the economic value that the airport has on the local and regional economy of the eastern panhandle and surrounding area. $29,796 Innovative Community Solutions, Inc. in Martinsburg: This Rural Development investment will be used to continue an entrepreneurship and business leadership training program in Berkeley County. The program will serve formerly incarcerated individuals and veterans. Grant funds will be used to cover costs associated with personnel involved in delivering the training, equipment and supplies to be purchased. It is anticipated that this project will create 22 jobs for this region. $50,000 Greenbrier County Health Alliance in Lewisburg: This Rural Development investment will be used for the development of the Local Foods Skill Center and Waste Not Produce Market in Lewisburg, WV. Funds from this grant award will be used to support personnel costs, supplies and contractual expenses. The project is expected to assist a minimum of three businesses/farmers and create sixteen jobs in this region. The Greenbrier County Health Alliance began as a community engagement strategy that originated from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, Center for Rural and Community Health $50,000 West Virginia National Guard Foundation in Charleston: This Rural Development investment will be used to provide education and technical support to rural businesses. The training will include both on-farm and off-farm agriculture and agriculture business development through the creation of educational curriculum that would assist participants in all aspects of new business start up and management. This project is expected to assist fifteen veteran farmers/ businesses and create five jobs. $50,000 Mineral County Development Authority in Keyser: This Rural Development investment will be used to support the purchase of equipment and installation costs associated with the extension of 100Mpbs + broadband service to the Fort Ashby Business Park located in Mineral County, West Virginia. This project will provide high-speed internet access to commercial businesses located in the park. The project is also expected to assist local officials in attracting new businesses to the area that could potentially result in the creation of an estimated forty-five indirect jobs. $49,515 Canaan Valley Institute in Talcott: This Rural Development investment will be used to develop a hydroponics system to train entrepreneurs and farmers in nontraditional growing methods known as hydroponics. The project will include training and contractual costs to install the hydroponics system, including equipment and costs to retrofit an existing structure for the hydroponics system. This project is expected to create three jobs for this region. $50,000 Solar Energy Solutions in Parkersburg: This Rural Development investment will be used for the purchase and installation of a 133,894 kW solar array on the Williamstown High School. This project will replace 149,660 kWh (21%) per year and realize $12,224 of saving per year. The purpose of this funding program is to assist farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses in developing renewable energy systems, and in making energy efficiency improvements to their operations. ### 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-and-capito-announce-more-than-55-million-in-doj-funding-for-west-virginia-,Manchin and Capito Announce More Than $5.5 Million in DOJ Funding for West Virginia,2018-10-01,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 01, 2018 Manchin and Capito Announce More Than $5.5 Million in DOJ Funding for West Virginia Includes resources to help children affected by opioid epidemic WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. SenatorsJoe Manchin (D-WV) andShelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $5,583,112 for West Virginia through the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Funding will support services for children adversely impacted by the opioid crisis and its related crime, as well as for those currently struggling with addiction. It will also support the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault crimes, and improve engagement with victims. Every corner of the Mountain State has been impacted by the opioid epidemic. Our families and communities need our support as we overcome this epidemic. I'm glad to see this significant investment in programs that do just that. On the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue advocating for these resources for West Virginians,Senator Manchin said. As we continue to give our men and women in law enforcement the tools they need to bring drug dealers and violent criminals to justice, we must also remember the innocent victims of crime who may be affected by illegal acts, Senator Capito said. The opioid crisis has brought its own unique issues to West Virginia, and we have worked in Congress to support local leaders as they reach out to those struggling with addiction and their families. This funding is a step toward offering a more holistic response to this crisis and violent crime in general, and I will continue to work with my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to ensure West Virginia communities have the resources to respond to crime. Individual awards listed below: $1,300,000 West Virginia Division of Justice and Community Services through the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Site-based Program. $1,000,000 West Virginia Division of Justice and Community Services through the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative. $920,308 West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources through the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Site-based Program. $750,000 Child Protect of Mercer County, Inc. through the Enhancing Community Responses to the Opioid Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims program. $750,000 Marshall University Research Corporation through the Enhancing Community Responses to the Opioid Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims program. $549,726 Legal Aid of West Virginia through the Enhancing Community Responses to the Opioid Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims program. $313,078 Monongalia County Child Advocacy Center, Inc. through the Enhancing Community Responses to the Opioid Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims program. # # # 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-supports-flakes-call-for-a-fbi-investigation,Manchin Supports Flake's Call For A FBI Investigation,2018-09-28,2018,2018-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 28, 2018 Manchin Supports Flake's Call For A FBI Investigation Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ)'s call for a one-week FBI investigation. I applaud Senator Jeff Flake's decision to rise above the partisan circus on display during this entire process. It took courage to take a stand and call for a one-week FBI investigation to get to the bottom of the allegations against Judge Kavanaugh. This has been a partisan and divisive process. The American people have been pulled apart by this entire spectacle and we need to take time to address these claims independently, so that our country can have confidence in the outcome of this vote. It is what is right and fair for Dr. Ford, Judge Kavanaugh, and the American people. ### 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-and-heller-lead-bipartisan-effort-to-direct-rural-broadband-funding-to-high-cost-areas,Manchin And Heller Lead Bipartisan Effort To Direct Rural Broadband Funding To High Cost Areas,2018-09-27,2018,2018-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 27, 2018 Manchin And Heller Lead Bipartisan Effort To Direct Rural Broadband Funding To High Cost Areas Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Dean Heller (R-NV) led a bipartisan group of senators in writing a letter urging U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue to designate a high cost set aside within the e-Connectivity Pilot Program established in the Consolidated Appropriations Act to reach rural and geographically challenged areas of the country that need it most. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), of the 24 million American households that do not have reliable, affordable, high-speed internet, 80 percent are located in rural areas. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME). The Senators said in part: As you know, rural America is largely at a disadvantage for broadband deployment as a result of low population density, which makes these areas less attractive to the average broadband provider looking for a large return on investment. Certain areas, however, face even bigger obstacles to deployment because of their challenging topography. Mountains and valleys, desert terrain, working forests, islands, remote coastal areas and ribbons of winding roads are central to the identity of the communities we represent, and their beauty is what draws people to visit from around the world. Unfortunately, these same natural features make it far more expensive to construct critical broadband infrastructure. For example, during the first phase of the Mobility Fund, the average cost of Auction 901 greenfield sites constructed by U.S. Cellular in West Virginia came in at about $1.2 million, three times more expensive than flatter, easier to serve states like Oklahoma which only had an average cost of about $400,000. Read the full letter below or click here: Dear Secretary Perdue, As the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) begins to develop the new e-Connectivity Pilot Program established in the Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 115-141), we appreciate this opportunity to share our perspective on what needs to be done to ensure this program is a success. We were proud to help lead the bipartisan effort to dedicate $600 million for this program, but we remain concerned that absent a dedicated high cost set aside these funds will fail to reach the rural, geographically challenging areas of the country that need it most. A child should never have to sit outside their school or neighborhood library in order to get online and do their homework. No working adult should have to choose between living near their family and friends and having gainful employment because they cannot get an adequate internet connection where they live. A state should never have to fear being under-represented in the upcoming Census because they do not have the broadband infrastructure for their citizenry to fully participate in the increasingly important online portions of it. Unfortunately, while we know these things should never happen, we know that they do. Our states deal with these and the other negative consequences that accompany a lack of reliable broadband access day after day. The longer this issue persists, the further we will fall behind, making it impossible to participate in a 21st century economy. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), of the 24 million American households that do not have reliable, affordable, high-speed internet, 80 percent are located in rural areas. For far too long, our states have been on the wrong side of the digital divide. We are hopeful that the USDA's new pilot program will help our children have the tools they need to finish their school work, assist our states in attracting new residents and businesses, support seniors aging in place, strengthen digital literacy and inclusion, and ensure our communities are receiving their fair share of federal funding for important services like healthcare and telemedicine, job training, education and distance learning, tourism, and connectivity that supports rural economic development. As you know, rural America is largely at a disadvantage for broadband deployment as a result of low population density, which makes these areas less attractive to the average broadband provider looking for a large return on investment. Certain areas, however, face even bigger obstacles to deployment because of their challenging topography. Mountains and valleys, desert terrain, working forests, islands, remote coastal areas and ribbons of winding roads are central to the identity of the communities we represent, and their beauty is what draws people to visit from around the world. Unfortunately, these same natural features make it far more expensive to construct critical broadband infrastructure. For example, during the first phase of the Mobility Fund, the average cost of Auction 901 greenfield sites constructed by U.S. Cellular in West Virginia came in at about $1.2 million, three times more expensive than flatter, easier to serve states like Oklahoma which only had an average cost of about $400,000. With the additional effort and higher costs associated with this difficult and remote terrain, it is clear why providers would choose to avoid broadband deployment in high cost, geographically challenging areas. Many of our states must absorb these high costs and invest their own resources into building out broadband infrastructure in hopes of reducing the financial barriers to attracting private partners, but they cannot afford to do it alone. We need a federal partner that understands these unique challenges our states face when trying to expand broadband service and we ask that USDA consult with states to create a high-cost definition that accurately reflects the significant additional costs associated with deploying broadband in these areas so that our states can effectively compete for grant funding with other states that can build out for pennies on the dollar. We strongly encourage you to address this disparity and ensure our states have a fair shot at this funding by establishing a reasonable set aside within this $600 million allocation for high-cost, hard to serve areas like the places we represent. Once considered a luxury, access to the internet has now become a critical lifeline to society and the future of our economy. We need your help to ensure that all Americans, no matter their area code, have access to a high-speed, reliable internet connection. We thank you for carefully considering this request and look forward to working together to ensure that this program helps those that need it most. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-applauds-bill-renaming-nasa-facility-for-west-virginian-katherine-johnson,Manchin Applauds Bill Renaming NASA Facility For West Virginian Katherine Johnson,2018-09-26,2018,2018-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 26, 2018 Manchin Applauds Bill Renaming NASA Facility For West Virginian Katherine Johnson Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) applauded the Senate passage of legislation he cosponsored honoring the life, legacy, and scientific contributions of famed mathematician and West Virginian Katherine Johnson. The bill would rename the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) Facility in Fairmont, West Virginia, after Mrs. Johnson. I applaud my Senate colleagues for passing this legislation, which I was proud to cosponsor, to rename Fairmont's NASA IV&V facility. Not only did Katherine Johnson, broaden our nation's perceived physical limitations with her contributions to the space program, she also broke down discriminatory barriers that stood in the way of so many other women and people of color advancing in the workplace. Katherine Johnson is one of West Virginia's finest and a groundbreaking, brilliant mathematician. No individual is more worthy of this honor than her. Through her brilliance, strength, and courage, she proved to the country that anyoneregardless of race, gender, or backgroundcan touch the stars, Senator Manchin said. Katherine Johnson, of White Sulphur Springs, graduated with degrees in mathematics and French at the age of just 18 from West Virginia State, before becoming the first African-American woman to attend graduate school at West Virginia University. Katherine Johnson calculated trajectories for multiple NASA space missions including the first human spaceflight by an American, Alan Shepard's Freedom 7 mission. She also calculated trajectories for John Glenn's Friendship 7 mission to orbit the earth. During her time at NASA, she became the first woman recognized as an author of a report from the Flight Research Division. In May 2016, she was awarded a Presidential Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from WVU for attaining national and international preeminence in the field of astrophysics and providing distinguished leadership and service in her field. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-urges-leadership-include-crib-act-opioid-crisis-response-act,REP. JENKINS: URGES LEADERSHIP TO INCLUDE CRIB ACT IN OPIOID CRISIS RESPONSE ACT,2018-09-25,2018,2018-09,Republican,House,WV,Evan Jenkins,J000297,evanjenkins.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) and Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) have asked House and Senate leadership to support Sec. 2201 of the Senate-passed Opioid Crisis Response Act of 2018 and ensure its included in the final legislative package currently being negotiated. Sec. 2201 is based on Rep. Jenkins legislation the Caring Recovery for Infants and Babies (CRIB) Act. This provision would recognize residential pediatric recovery facilities as providers under Medicaid and allow certain health care services provided to infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) in those facilities to be covered by Medicaid. Additionally, the provision clarifies that infants who receive services from these facilities can continue to do so after they reach one year of age and authorizes residential pediatric recovery centers to offer counseling or referrals for services, activities to encourage caregiver-infant bonding, and training on caring for infants to family members or other caregivers. As we seek to address the needs of those suffering from the opioid crisis, it is crucial that we take action to protect this epidemic's most vulnerable victims. We believe that allowing residential pediatric recovery facilities to be eligible for reimbursement under Medicaid for the services they provide to infants with NAS through Sec. 2201 will allow more babies and their families to attain the care they need, and we urge you to ensure its inclusion in the final legislative package currently under negotiations, Rep. Jenkins and Sen. Brown wrote in the letter.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-more-than-926k-for-west-virginia-infrastructure-projects,"Capito, Manchin Announce More Than $926K for West Virginia Infrastructure Projects",2018-09-25,2018,2018-09,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"09.25.18 Capito, Manchin Announce More Than $926K for West Virginia Infrastructure Projects WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $926,558 in funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation for training programs for locators, excavators, and various other small vehicle operators for hazardous material response and damage prevention and pipeline safety programs in West Virginia. The success of the American economy depends, in part, on being able to move goods easily and affordably, and the efficient transportation of energy resources helps power our nation and enrich our daily lives, Senator Capito said. Its important that we continue to ensure energy producers are able to do that safely, and this funding will help train first responders and develop plans that will keep our communities safe in the event of emergencies. As a member of the Appropriations, Commerce, and Energy and Natural Resources committees, I will continue to advocate for the responsible development and transportation of our nations abundant energy resources. In West Virginia we are blessed with an abundance of energy resources and the ability to easily and safely transport them in crucial to our economies continued success, Senator Manchin said. This funding will ensure this transportation is does safely and efficiently. In addition, this support programs that train professionals to respond to any emergency. As a member of the Senate Appropriations and Energy and Natural Resources Committees, I will continue advocating for support that enables West Virginias energy sector to continue to thrive and do so safely. Individual awards listed below: $291,619 -- PHMSA 2018 Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Grant $14,878 -- PHMSA FY 2018 One-Call Grant $7,439 -- PHMSA FY 2018 One-Call Grant $612,622 PHMSA 2018 State Base Pipeline Safety Grant ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-capito-bill-honoring-life-legacy-of-katherine-johnson,"Senate Passes Capito Bill Honoring Life, Legacy of Katherine Johnson",2018-09-25,2018,2018-09,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"09.25.18 Senate Passes Capito Bill Honoring Life, Legacy of Katherine Johnson Legislation would rename Fairmont NASA facility after mathematician, West Virginia native WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today welcomed Senate passage of her bill to honor the life and legacy of West Virginia native and famed mathematician Katherine Johnson. The legislationwhich passed the Senate by voice votewould rename the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) Facility in Fairmont, West Virginia, after Johnson. Were one step closer to renaming Fairmonts NASA IV&V facility after Katherine Johnson, a brilliant mathematician and true trailblazer, Senator Capito said. Im thrilled that the Senate recognized her incredible contributionsnot only to West Virginia but also to the country and the science communityand passed this legislation with such overwhelming support. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. More information on Senator Capitos legislation is available here. Addition information on Katherine Johnson is available here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-and-capito-announce-more-than-926k-for-west-virginia-infrastructure-projects,Manchin and Capito Announce More Than $926K For West Virginia Infrastructure Projects,2018-09-25,2018,2018-09,Democrat,House,WV,Joe Manchin,M001183,www.manchin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 25, 2018 Manchin and Capito Announce More Than $926K For West Virginia Infrastructure Projects Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $926,558 in funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation for training programs for locators, excavators, and various other small vehicle operators for hazardous material response and damage prevention and pipeline safety programs in West Virginia. In West Virginia we are blessed with an abundance of energy resources and the ability to easily and safely transport them in crucial to our economies continued success, Senator Manchin said. This funding will ensure this transportation is does safely and efficiently. In addition, this support programs that train professionals to respond to any emergency. As a member of the Senate Appropriations and Energy and Natural Resources Committees, I will continue advocating for support that enables West Virginia's energy sector to continue to thrive and do so safely. The success of the American economy depends, in part, on being able to move goods easily and affordably, and the efficient transportation of energy resources helps power our nation and enrich our daily lives, Senator Capito said. It's important that we continue to ensure energy producers are able to do that safely, and this funding will help train first responders and develop plans that will keep our communities safe in the event of emergencies. As a member of the Appropriations, Commerce, and Energy and Natural Resources committees, I will continue to advocate for the responsible development and transportation of our nation's abundant energy resources. Individual awards listed below: $291,619 -- PHMSA 2018 Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Grant $14,878 -- PHMSA FY 2018 One-Call Grant $7,439 -- PHMSA FY 2018 One-Call Grant $612,622 PHMSA 2018 State Base Pipeline Safety Grant ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z