- Senate passes bill increasing legislative authority over education rules.
- Comprehensive child welfare reforms added to House Bill 2880.
- Attempts to ease vaccine requirements were withdrawn or failed.
As the 2025 legislative session nears its end, the West Virginia Senate has approved pivotal legislation reshaping education oversight. They have also approved child welfare protections.
House Bill 2880 saw overwhelming support after being amended to incorporate strict regulations for residential youth programs. These regulations echo provisions from Senate Bill 817.
Education Power Shift and Child Protection Take Center Stage in WV Senate’s Final Push
The Senate’s passage of HB 2755 marks a significant shift in how educational policies are regulated in West Virginia. The bill mandates that state Board of Education rules undergo legislative commission scrutiny and approval. This asserts greater legislative dominance over education. However, this approach revives constitutional debates dating back to the 1980s and disregards the failed 2022 constitutional amendment.
Supporters of HB 2755 claim it brings essential accountability and aligns with the legislature’s role under the state constitution. Opponents, however, argue that the judiciary has already deemed such oversight unconstitutional, and the voters have spoken against it. The issue remains contentious, with expectations that the new law will face legal challenges.
In child welfare, the Senate took decisive steps by integrating SB 817 into HB 2880. They are targeting residential and therapeutic programs for vulnerable youth. The bill mandates thorough background checks, annual licensure, and protections against abuse. It aims to curb reports of mistreatment at such facilities.
The move to include SB 817—originally stalled in committee—into HB 2880 also sparked procedural criticism. Lawmakers expressed frustration that the amendment’s origins weren’t clearly communicated on the floor. Despite that, the reforms received widespread bipartisan support, driven by growing calls to protect children in institutional care.
As West Virginia’s legislative session nears its close, the Senate’s actions reflect a clear focus on asserting legislative oversight. The Senate is also strengthening child protection, even amid controversy and debate.
“We have a duty to our children in West Virginia to ensure their safety and … we’re failing them.” – Sen. Laura Wakim Chapman, R-Ohio
