West Virginia Chamber’s Vision for the 2018 Legislature
October 26, 2017
Charleston, W.Va. – The West Virginia Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce its Vision for the 2018 Session of the West Virginia Legislature.
Chamber President Steve Roberts said, “Our state has made tremendous progress in recent years, and the West Virginia Legislature is to be recognized and commended for its commitment to building a business climate dedicated to job growth.” Economic data for 2017 shows that in the past year, coal production has increased 24%, natural gas production is at an all-time high, construction employment has increased 900 jobs, healthcare has added 3,400 positions. Additionally, West Virginia’s GDP growth was second in the nation for the first quarter of 2017, and numerous national and international companies have announced expansions in the state in recent months.”
While much progress has been made in West Virginia, additional changes are needed to create an environment to attract and keep jobs. The West Virginia Chamber of Commerce will be focused on several broad topics including:
- Education reform and development of the talent pipeline
- Enhanced connectivity for the 21st Century
- Protecting our state’s welcoming and inclusive image
- A comprehensive and responsible approach to the Opioid Addiction Crisis
- Modernization of West Virginia’s tax structure
Roberts continued, “Action on each issue is needed to demonstrate that West Virginia is serious about being irresistible to companies investing in jobs. The West Virginia Chamber of Commerce is committed to bringing positive change to our state. Addressing these issues during the 2018 Legislative Session will show our state is aggressively working to enrich the lives of those living here, as well as those exploring the possibility of locating to the Mountain State.”