The leaders of the West Virginia Senate and House are seeking further clarification regarding the governor's proposals for tax reductions and salary increases for state employees.
Senate President Randy Smith has indicated that the Republican supermajority in the Senate has a strategy prepared for the legislative session that kicks off tomorrow, although he noted that this plan is largely being influenced by the chairs of various committees. However, Smith’s remarks provided limited details about what to expect.
This discussion took place during the annual Issues & Eggs Legislative Breakfast organized by the Charleston Area Alliance. The panel was moderated by Hoppy Kercheval, a retired host from MetroNews Talkline, who facilitated the conversation between Senate President Smith and House Speaker Roger Hanshaw.
Governor Patrick Morrisey is set to deliver his State of the State address at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, which will provide a framework for the upcoming legislative session. He has already suggested additional personal income tax cuts ranging from 5% to 10%. In recent years, the Legislature, along with the previous administration, has implemented significant reductions in personal income taxes through a series of legislative measures and trigger-based adjustments, amounting to a total decrease of over 20% since 2023.
While both Hanshaw and Smith did not dismiss the possibility of further tax cuts outright, they expressed a desire to understand more about the specifics of the governor's proposals. "Everyone is generally in favor of lowering taxes," remarked Smith, a Republican from Tucker County. "I consider myself a strong advocate for tax reductions, just like probably everyone present here. However, the distinction lies in the fact that sometimes we, in both the House and the Senate, must act as responsible overseers to ensure that we can meet our financial obligations.
"We need to guarantee that we won’t lead the state into bankruptcy or jeopardize essential programs. So until we clearly understand what the governor intends to propose—speaking solely for myself—it’s challenging to affirm our support. While I am in favor of tax cuts, I believe they must be responsible ones."
Hanshaw added, "I wouldn’t say I’m against it. Our goal is to create the lowest possible tax environment. It would be imprudent for me to make a premature judgment about the governor's proposal before he presents it tomorrow evening.
"Clearly, there is a strong desire for tax reductions in nearly any form. We aim to achieve the most favorable tax climate possible, so I prefer not to prejudge the governor’s proposal until we receive the full details during his presentation tomorrow night. Let’s just say we are not opposed at this stage."
Both the governor and the Republican majority in the House have signaled intentions to implement some form of salary increase, but it remains unclear what the proposed figures will be and who specifically would qualify for these raises.
Last month, delegates introduced a pay raise proposal aimed primarily at teachers and service personnel. Shortly after, Morrisey outlined a plan for a salary increase that would encompass all state employees.
"We discussed our priorities a couple of weeks ago, highlighting the need to continue supporting educators. I believe the governor mentioned the possibility of a more extensive pay raise in public comments shortly thereafter," Hanshaw stated.
"Therefore, it seems reasonable to anticipate some form of salary increase. Traditionally, we have implemented increments of around five percent over time. While I can’t predict what the governor will propose tomorrow night, it’s fair to say that discussions around pay raises are very much active."
While the House has been clear about many of its priorities, primarily focusing on economic and workforce development, the Senate's agenda has remained less defined thus far.
Senator Eric Tarr, a Republican from Putnam, stirred up some controversy during a volunteer appearance at Friday's Legislative Lookahead event, where he informed attendees of the West Virginia Press Association that the Senate currently lacks a definitive agenda. He reiterated this sentiment on MetroNews Talkline this week.
Smith commented that he didn't take offense but disagreed with Tarr's assessment.
"Both the Senate and the House can be seen as unpredictable at times, but I disagree with that characterization. I’ve had numerous inquiries regarding his remarks, but he is entitled to his opinion as a state senator. I respect Senator Tarr; he’s intelligent and has valid points," Smith explained.
"My responsibility is to perform my duties effectively. I can assure you we do have a plan. My committee chairs have been diligently working on their agendas since the last session concluded. To say we lack direction isn’t entirely accurate, as we indeed have a strategy in place."
Smith elaborated on the volume of bills that will be introduced and reviewed, noting that many do not receive adequate public attention.
"We have a deliberate plan. Perhaps I should apologize for not holding a press conference to announce it, but I come from a blue-collar background and believe in simply completing the job. I do not seek recognition for it; I view myself as a leader who facilitates the process."
He concluded with optimism, stating, "We’ll manage just fine. Everything will work out."
