Sen. Jay Taylor

Maddy summaryThis is a Senate resolution (SR 34), not a bill with binding policy changes. It expresses symbolic support for President Felix Tshisekedi and citizens of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), condemning M23 rebel groups backed by Rwanda and calling for an immediate end to hostilities. The resolution specifically urges the cessation of violence, accountability for alleged crimes against humanity, and humanitarian aid. It does not create new laws or allocate funds; instead, it directs copies to federal officials and West Virginia's congressional delegation.

Maddy summarySB 516 provides additional state funding to West Virginia school districts for students attending "extremely remote schools," defined as schools in counties with a student population density below five students per square mile. The bill increases the funding calculation by counting each student in such schools as 2.5 students instead of one for state aid purposes. County school boards receiving this extra funding are prohibited from closing an extremely remote school during the fiscal year they receive the aid. The bill also requires school districts to submit specific documentation and meet reporting requirements to qualify for the additional funding.

Maddy summarySB 757 creates a new legal pathway allowing West Virginia residents to sue individuals or entities that violate their rights under state law or the West Virginia Constitution. It directly affects citizens whose constitutional or statutory rights - such as due process or equal protection - are infringed by state actors (e.g., officials or agencies acting under state authority). The bill enables plaintiffs to seek compensatory, nominal, or punitive damages, plus attorney fees and court costs if they win their case. This provision applies broadly to deprivations caused by state statutes, rules, or local ordinances, though it explicitly excludes judicial officers from injunctive relief claims unless prior declaratory relief was denied.

Maddy summaryWest Virginia's SB 758 establishes new rules for vape and smoke shops, requiring them to obtain permits from county health departments and comply with specific location and operating standards. The bill prohibits these shops from operating within 1,000 feet of schools or residential areas, bans advertising that appeals to minors (like candy flavors or cartoon characters), and mandates inspections with fines for violations. It directly affects vape and smoke shop owners by creating a permit system and restricting where they can operate, while aiming to protect youth from nicotine product marketing. The law also defines key terms like "alternative nicotine products" and sets standards for business compliance.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 24) designates March 13, 2025, as "Tucker County Day" at the West Virginia Legislature. It formally recognizes Tucker County's contributions to the state through tourism, recreation, history, and infrastructure (including Corridor H construction and three state parks), while acknowledging the county's cultural significance and the 40th anniversary of the 1985 flood. The resolution is non-binding and symbolic, encouraging continued civic engagement by Tucker County residents. It was adopted by the Senate via voice vote on March 13, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 27) formally congratulates the Taylor County Middle School football team for winning the 2024 Mid-8 Championship. It recognizes their historic 9-0 season and first-ever championship victory in the school's 31-year program. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no policy impact and directly affects only the team, coaches, and school community through this official recognition.

Maddy summarySB 521 changes how judicial and school board elections are conducted in West Virginia. It requires partisan ballots for judicial offices (including Supreme Court justices, circuit court judges, family court judges, and magistrates), meaning candidates' party affiliations will be listed on the ballot. For county school board elections, the bill mandates nonpartisan ballots, so party affiliations will not be included. These changes affect how ballots are printed and displayed for these specific elections, as outlined in amended sections of the West Virginia election code.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 23 memorializes Janie Lou White, former Executive Director of the Preston County Senior Citizens Program, for her 34 years of dedicated service to seniors and community. The resolution honors her professional work in gerontology, advocacy for senior wellness, and community involvement with groups like the Alzheimer’s Support Network. It expresses the Senate’s condolences to her family and recognizes her legacy of kindness and commitment. This procedural resolution has no policy impact - it solely serves to commemorate her life and contributions.

Maddy summarySB 689, the State Sovereignty Act of 2025, prohibits West Virginia state and local governments (including counties, cities, school districts, and water districts) from enforcing or collaborating on mandates from the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations (UN), or World Economic Forum (WEF). The bill explicitly states these international entities have "no jurisdiction" in West Virginia and bans state entities from using their requirements as a legal basis for action, including mandates related to masks, vaccines, medical testing, or data collection about residents. It declares any such mandates issued by these organizations "shall have no force or effect" within the state. This bill directly affects how West Virginia localities interact with international health and economic policies but does not alter existing state laws.

Maddy summarySB 740, the Stop Squatters Act, establishes a new process for property owners to quickly remove unauthorized occupants (squatters) from residential or commercial properties. It allows owners or their agents to request immediate police removal if conditions are met (e.g., occupant isn’t a tenant/family member, owner previously demanded they leave, and no court case is pending). The bill also creates criminal penalties: misdemeanors for damaging property under $1,000 during unlawful occupation, felonies for greater damage, and felonies for falsely listing property for sale/rent without legal title. Property owners must submit a verified complaint, and the law includes a civil remedy if removal is wrongful.