CHARLESTON, W.VA. — As the state legislature prepares to begin its regular session, the Kanawha County Commission finalized what they would like to see the government address this year.
“As the state of West Virginia is facing huge financial problems, I expect this to be a very difficult but hopefully productive legislative session,” said commission president Kent Carper in a statement.
The commission came out against any proposal that would reduce coal severance tax revenue to local governments as well as any legislation that would replace business personal property revenue with an increased real estate property tax.
All counties in the state receives a coal severance tax paid by the coal industry. Proponents in favor of cutting the tax have said it will make West Virginia’s coal more competitive with other states that have small or no rates.
The body will also oppose any attempt to reduce 911 fees revenue distributed to countries, but will support legislation that authorizes county commissions to impose additionally wireless 911 fees. Additionally, any new fee imposed would be supported if funds were given back to the county where it was collected.
The West Virginia Legislature will begin their session on Jan. 11, but will break for a month to allow Governor-elect Jim Justice to take office.