CHARLESTON, W.Va. — As state lawmakers complete their first week of the regular legislative session, AARP West Virginia has unveiled its top priorities for this year.
The organization on Tuesday outlined its leading concerns, which are internet access, health security and financial resilience.
While the state Legislature has focused on improving broadband internet access, AARP West Virginia leaders say more should be done on the matter as well as affordability and reliability.
“This is an issue that has garnered bipartisan support, and there are a number of proposals that have already been introduced,” state director Gaylene Miller said on Tuesday’s “MetroNews Talkline.”
Miller said lawmakers should set speed standards and establish clear definitions regarding services.
As the coronavirus pandemic continues and vaccination efforts improve, AARP West Virginia is urging lawmakers to reject calls related to immunity. The organization additionally wants assurance federal resources are being best utilized, and long-term care facilities are properly staffed.
AARP West Virginia is also pushing to maintain support for family caregivers and nutrition programs. Leaders also want the state Legislature to address elder financial exploitation.
Gov. Jim Justice and Republicans have been arguing for cutting the state income tax; their plan includes increasing the sales tax, raising taxes on soda and cigarettes, tiering severance taxes, and installing a new wealth tax.
Miller said she is reviewing the proposal “very carefully.”
“We’re eager to see what is included in that,” she added. “We do have some reservations that there may be unintended consequences as a result of the proposal.”
The regular legislative session goes through April 10.
Note: AARP West Virginia is the lead sponsor of the “MetroNews Capitol Report” and sponsors segments of “MetroNews Talkline.”