Every West Virginian deserves clean air, safe water, and a healthy place to call home. But too often, communities across our state—especially those historically excluded from decision-making—face greater environmental and health risks. People and families live, work, and play near hazardous waste and industrial facilities, deal with unsafe drinking water, and breathe polluted air, all while struggling to get the attention and resources they need.

At the same time, the state agencies meant to protect our communities are underfunded and understaffed, leaving residents without the support they deserve. Public agencies must be available and responsive to all communities—not just those with political influence.

Take Action Now: Sign the petition below to call for a healthier, safer future for all West Virginians. By signing, you’re joining a movement for stronger protections, better access to information, and real investment in the communities that need it most.

Our Letter:

Dear Decision Makers, 

We, the undersigned, call on state leaders to take urgent action to support West Virginia communities that have been historically burdened by environmental hazards.

Across the state, residents live, work, and play near hazardous waste facilities, breathe polluted air, and struggle to access clean drinking water. Meanwhile, the agencies meant to protect public health and the environment are often underfunded, stretched thin, and inaccessible, leaving too many communities without support.

We call for our state to:

• Invests in impacted communities and ensures they receive the resources they need. No one should be left behind when it comes to clean air and water.
• Fully funds and staffs public agencies to ensure they are responsive to community needs, not just industry demands.
• Reduces the risks of hazardous waste sites and prevents future pollution in already overburdened areas.
• Engages directly with residents and listens to community-driven solutions.
• Makes environmental and health information accessible and transparent so families can make informed decisions about their safety.

West Virginians deserve a government that prioritizes their health, safety, and future. We urge you to take immediate steps to make environmental justice a reality.

For clean water & healthy communities,

West Virginia Rivers Coalition and undersigned members