Guest Column: Building A Better Future for West Virginia

As we have in past legislative sessions, AARP West Virginia is providing an opportunity for our state elected officials and legislative leaders to submit op-ed guest columns on issues pending before the West Virginia Legislature. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author's own, and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of AARP.

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Guest Column by The Honorable Patrick Morrisey
Governor, State of West Virginia
February 28, 2025

West Virginia was built on hard work, resilience, strength in our communities, and pride in our history. As Governor, I want to ensure all West Virginians – especially our seniors – are able to thrive and live healthy, fulfilling lives. We must focus on improving healthcare outcomes, expanding broadband access, and working to bring down the costs of goods and services.

Perry Bennett/WV Legislature

One of the most pressing issues facing West Virginians of all ages is healthcare. West Virginia ranks at the bottom of nearly every major public health ranking – and that must change. Many communities around the state struggle to access quality healthcare they need to be happy and healthy. Facility closures, healthcare worker shortages, and long travel times to receive care all contribute to West Virginia’s struggles.

Enabling free market competition and attracting more healthcare clinics, physicians, nurses, and care centers is the key to raising the standard of care. That’s why I’ve pushed to repeal certificate of need (CON) laws in West Virginia to remove unnecessary roadblocks and allow innovation and entrepreneurship to take root.

When it comes to prescriptions, our seniors need to know that they can get their life-saving drugs at an affordable cost. I am committed to working with leaders in Washington and at the local level to ensure transparency in pricing, and protect West Virginians from shouldering unfair costs.

Telehealth expansion is an opportunity that can transform the healthcare system in West Virginia. Being able to connect with doctors without leaving your home is a game-changer for seniors and those who live in rural areas. We must continue to expand options for affordable, high-quality healthcare if we’re going to grow as a state and improve our standard of living.

For seniors to take advantage of telehealth and other critical services, they need reliable internet access. Unfortunately, many areas of West Virginia still have internet that moves at the speed of slow. In today’s world, maintaining reliable and fast connections isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. That’s why, in the upcoming months, I will be working with the Trump Administration to best position West Virginia to take advantage of federal broadband dollars to improve quality of life.

A strong economy benefits everyone, and attracting new businesses and job opportunities to West Virginia is vitally important. On day one of my administration, I declared an economic “Backyard Brawl” to better compete with neighboring states. We will ensure that West Virginia has the lowest income tax of the states we touch and work to reform burdensome permitting processes that prevent new businesses from moving into the state. By reducing red tape and promoting job growth, we can reduce the costs for goods and services and build vibrant communities that benefit our kids and grandkids.

I believe West Virginia’s best days are ahead of her. It’s time to get to work, and we’re all on Team West Virginia. As your Governor, I will fight to make West Virginia a beacon of opportunity, hope, and prosperity for all.