Del. Joe Funkhouser

Maddy summaryHB 3436, the Genetic Privacy Act, would require companies and organizations collecting genetic data in West Virginia to obtain clear, specific consumer consent before using or sharing that information. It defines "genetic data" broadly to include DNA sequences, health-related information connected to genetic testing, and related analyses. The bill mandates that entities provide privacy notices about data collection, use, and disclosure, and allows consumers to access or delete their data. It includes exceptions for healthcare providers under HIPAA, research with proper consent, and government use (with new warrant requirements starting in 2027), directly affecting genetic testing companies and any business handling consumer genetic information in the state.

Maddy summaryHB 3437 requires parents or guardians to provide specific, written consent before newborn genetic screening occurs, replacing general hospital admission forms. It limits blood sample collection to only what's necessary for screening and mandates destruction of blood spots after three weeks unless separate consent is obtained for retention. The bill also requires explicit parental consent for any future use of blood samples or test results - including research, law enforcement, or public health studies - preventing automatic retention or sharing. This applies directly to all newborns in West Virginia and ensures parents control how their child's genetic information is handled.

Maddy summaryHB 3418 amends West Virginia law to establish specific regulations for fixed odds wagering on dog racing, defining it as accepting bets on live dog races with predetermined odds. The bill creates new legal definitions (including §29-22D-15a) and specifies that this wagering can only occur at licensed gaming facilities, such as historic resort hotels or racetrack facilities operating under existing laws. It clarifies that fixed odds dog racing wagers may be combined with other authorized sports wagers but must comply strictly with the new provisions. The bill directly affects licensed operators at these facilities and sets the framework for how such wagering will be permitted under state law.

Maddy summaryHB 3449 allows professionals licensed in other states to obtain a West Virginia occupational license through recognition of their existing credentials, rather than requiring full re-licensing. To qualify, applicants must have worked in their licensed profession for at least one year in another state, have no license suspensions or disciplinary issues, and be in good standing with all states where they hold a license. The bill requires licensing boards to review applications within 60 days and establishes an appeals process for denied applications. It also prevents local governments from creating their own licensing rules for these occupations, ensuring a uniform state-level process.

Maddy summaryHB 2035 establishes a three-year pilot program to provide legal representation for children in juvenile abuse and neglect cases through "Public Guardian ad Litem Services." It creates public guardian ad litem corporations in up to three West Virginia counties to employ full-time attorneys (public guardians) who will represent eligible minor children who cannot afford legal counsel. The bill outlines procedures for funding, conflict resolution (using Public Defender Service attorneys when needed), recordkeeping, and annual audits, with the program set to sunset after three years. This directly affects vulnerable children in specified court proceedings under West Virginia law, aiming to ensure quality legal assistance in these cases.

Maddy summaryHB 3082 requires parolees or probationers determined to have a history of substance abuse - based on standardized risk assessments - to participate in approved support services for a minimum of 60 days. This applies to individuals under supervision in West Virginia, as amended in §62-12-17(a)(4) of the state code. The bill mandates that supervision officers approve the service schedule, with participation being a condition of release. It directly affects those on probation or parole with documented substance abuse histories identified through required assessments. The policy change focuses on structured support rather than punitive measures for this specific group.

Maddy summaryHB 3345 establishes a 50% tax credit for West Virginia family caregivers providing uncompensated care to eligible relatives. The credit covers eligible out-of-pocket expenses directly related to daily living needs (like home modifications, medical equipment, hiring aides, or respite care), with a maximum annual credit of $2,000. It applies to caregivers supporting family members who are 18+ and require assistance with activities of daily living (e.g., bathing, feeding, mobility), as certified by a healthcare provider. The credit is nonrefundable and will take effect January 1, 2027.

Maddy summaryHB 3321 increases West Virginia's minimum auto insurance coverage requirements. Starting January 1, 2026, drivers must carry $50,000 for bodily injury/death per person, $100,000 for multiple people, and $50,000 for property damage per accident. This raises current 2026 minimums from $25,000/$50,000/$25,000 to the new amounts. Existing policies in effect as of December 31, 2025, will remain valid until renewal. The bill directly affects all vehicle owners and operators in West Virginia requiring proof of financial responsibility.

Maddy summaryHB 2883 creates a state-maintained directory of e-cigarette products (ENDS) sold in West Virginia, requiring manufacturers to certify FDA compliance annually. Manufacturers must submit documentation proving their products have FDA marketing authorization or a valid premarket application, pay a $100 fee per product, and list all brands, categories, and flavors. Only products appearing on this publicly accessible directory - updated monthly - can be legally sold, with retailers facing unannounced compliance checks. The Alcohol Beverage Control Administration enforces the rule, imposing fines for violations like selling non-listed products or failing to update certifications. This directly affects e-cigarette manufacturers, retailers, and wholesalers operating in West Virginia.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows West Virginia's Supreme Court of Appeals to temporarily recall retired circuit court judges, family court judges, and Supreme Court justices under specific circumstances, such as a sitting judge's prolonged illness, vacancy, or heavy caseload. It sets daily pay limits ($430 for most judges, $325 for family court judges) and requires that combined pay and retirement benefits in a year not exceed a sitting judge's annual salary, unless the Chief Justice certifies extraordinary circumstances. Retired judges recalled for service may also be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred during their temporary assignments. The bill clarifies the Supreme Court's authority to manage judicial staffing needs while maintaining compliance with federal retirement plan rules.