Del. J.B. Akers

Maddy summaryThe WV Load Forecast Accountability Act (HB 4481) requires West Virginia's Public Service Commission to review and validate the electricity demand forecasts submitted by local utilities to PJM (the regional grid operator), ensuring accuracy and transparency. The Commission must assess utility data and assumptions within 12 months, verify that only likely-to-develop projects (e.g., data centers) are included based on financial commitments, and coordinate with PJM and neighboring states to prevent double-counting of new energy demands. This oversight aims to protect consumers from unnecessary costs by aligning forecasts with realistic grid planning needs.

Maddy summaryHB 4656 modifies West Virginia's school attendance laws by ending the compulsory attendance requirement at age 18 (previously 17), meaning 18-year-olds no longer face penalties for chronic absenteeism. It replaces "truancy" with "chronic absenteeism," removes criminal penalties for 18-year-olds, and requires schools to notify them directly about unexcused absences - same as parents. The bill establishes new referral pathways to human services for wrap-around support, shifts handling of chronic absenteeism to juvenile welfare (not criminal) proceedings, and defines key terms like "student support specialist." It directly affects students aged 17-18, school staff, and county human services departments.

Maddy summaryHB 4001 creates TEAM-WV, a new nonprofit corporation to advance West Virginia's economic development. The bill requires the Governor to form this entity to promote job creation, retention, training, and business recruitment, with specific operational rules. Key provisions include requiring the Governor to file articles of incorporation, establishing a board of directors with appointment procedures, mandating board approval for CEO compensation and major contracts, and requiring annual strategic planning and conflict-of-interest policies. The corporation will operate under state code but must follow these defined governance structures. This is a procedural bill establishing the framework for a state economic development agency, not a direct policy affecting residents or businesses.

Maddy summaryHB 5649 clarifies when records about abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of vulnerable adults (adults needing protection in facilities) can be shared. It allows disclosure to law enforcement, prosecutors, courts, victims, and their lawyers under specific conditions, while requiring redaction of identifying details for administrative hearings. The bill also sets strict rules for using these records in hearings: they must be disclosed only after a court order, with personal details removed unless relevant, and cannot be reused or shared outside the hearing. This directly affects vulnerable adults, protective services agencies, courts, and government entities handling abuse reports.

Maddy summaryHB 5059 allows West Virginia museums, libraries, archives, and historical societies to claim legal ownership of specific items they hold, following defined notice procedures. For property on long-term loan (including expired loans), institutions can claim title after notifying the lender and waiting 60 days if no response is received. For items without clear ownership records ("undocumented property"), institutions must hold the items for three years plus 60 days of notice before claiming title. Similarly, items found on institution property ("unsolicited donations") can be claimed after 60 days of notice to potential owners. The bill requires specific written notices detailing the property and claiming process.

Maddy summaryHB 5351 modernizes how counties collect fees from emergency communication service users to cover enhanced 911 systems and address conversion costs. It allows county commissions to impose a single fee per physical address (residential, commercial, or business location) regardless of technology used, including VoIP services for in-state subscribers. The fee must cover system upgrades, city-style addressing conversions, and operational costs, but cannot be charged multiple times for different services at the same location. This update ensures fee collection aligns with modern communication technologies while maintaining transparency for users.

Maddy summaryHB 4977 allows West Virginia municipalities to recover costs for demolishing unsafe structures by imposing special tax assessments on the property owners. It applies to properties deemed unsafe, unsanitary, dangerous, or detrimental to public safety - such as those with structural damage, fire hazards, or abandonment - after a code enforcement agency determines they require demolition. Municipalities must formally adopt ordinances designating an enforcement agency (like building inspectors or health officials) to manage this process. The bill clarifies that these special taxes are separate from regular property taxes and apply only to properties ordered demolished for public safety reasons. It does not create new demolition requirements but streamlines cost recovery for existing code enforcement actions.

Maddy summaryHB 5413 creates a Central Abuse Registry managed by the West Virginia State Police to track individuals convicted of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property involving children, incapacitated adults, or adults receiving behavioral health services in specific settings like residential care facilities, day care centers, or home care. It requires registrants to provide personal details (name, DOB, SSN) and pay an annual $125 fee to the circuit clerk, with fees funding mental health services for State Police employees. The registry combines existing requirements, so those already registering as sex offenders only pay one $125 fee instead of separate fees. Failure to pay the fee does not violate supervised release, but unpaid fees may result in a recorded judgment lien.

Maddy summaryThis House resolution formally recognizes President Donald J. Trump for various policies and actions that the West Virginia House of Delegates claims have benefited the state. The document highlights specific initiatives including regulatory reforms in the energy sector, tax relief measures, funding for rural healthcare, and programs aimed at reducing prescription drug costs and establishing investment accounts for newborns. It also cites border security improvements and drug control efforts as contributing factors to public safety and economic well-being. The resolution expresses appreciation for these actions and requests that the formal recognition be sent to the President.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution honors the life and legacy of the late West Virginia legislator Larry D. Kump, who passed away on February 28, 2026. The resolution formally expresses the House of Delegates' condolences to Kump's family and acknowledges his service as a representative for Berkeley County across three different terms. It recognizes his career in criminal justice and mediation, his commitment to limited government, and his role as a devoted family member and church leader. The document is a ceremonial tribute rather than a law that changes policy or affects public programs.