Our Waters, Lands, and Communities Deserve a Say!

The West Virginia House of Delegates is considering extensive rule changes that will shape how laws are made in our state. While some updates improve transparency -- like ensuring every bill gets three full days of review -- other changes could shut the public out of the process by eliminating the right to request public hearings and reducing opportunities for public input.

Public participation is essential to protecting clean water, fresh air, public lands, and healthy communities. We can help shape policies to safeguard our environment and future when we all have a voice.

What’s at Stake?

• A positive change: One proposed rule would require every bill to be considered for three days in committee, ensuring a more thorough review.
• A major concern: The public would no longer have the right to request a public hearing on bills, and there’s no guarantee of clear notice or a chance to speak before decisions are made.

📖 Read all the proposed rule changes here.

We’re Calling for Three Simple Fixes:

1. Keep public hearings: Allow anyone to request a public hearing with at least 48 hours’ notice.
2. Provide advance notice: Require committees and subcommittees to post agendas at least 48 hours before considering a bill.
3. Guarantee public input: Set aside time for public comment during a bill’s three-day review.

The House of Delegates could vote on these rule changes before the first day of the session. Now is the time to act!

Tell Your Delegate: Keep Public Participation in Lawmaking!

Fill out the form to send a message to your Delegate. Let them know that West Virginians deserve a say in decisions that affect our water, air, land, and communities.

Together, we can keep the House of Delegates the People’s House -- a place where every voice is heard.