West Virginia Week in Review - March 9, 2024

West Virginia Week in Review

Share Tweet Forward Gov. Justice announces agreement to reinstate trout stockings Gov. Justice announced that an agreement has been reached between the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to reinstate trout stockings to their original schedule. "This agreement represents a victory for West Virginia's longstanding tradition of world-class trout fishing,” Gov. Justice said. “My administration has fought to ensure that anglers across the state continue to enjoy the benefits of responsible, sustainable trout stocking practices. I'm proud of our continued commitment to both conservation and recreation, and I applaud the collaborative efforts of the WVDNR, USFWS, and West Virginia University that made this agreement possible." As part of the agreement, the WVDNR will reinstate stockings in four previously closed waters and restore the stocking frequency of 20 iconic streams during the month of May. Streams returning to the original stocking schedule are: Pinnacle Creek - Wyoming County Camp Creek - Mercer County Laurel Creek of Cherry - Greenbrier/Nicholas County North Fork of Cherry - Greenbrier County “We are thrilled to announce that these waters have returned to the original stocking schedule,” WVDNR Director Brett McMillion said. “Thanks to the support and collaboration of Governor Justice, West Virginia anglers can continue to enjoy our world-class trout program.” Read More X Gov. Justice shares thoughts on Calhoun County bus incident, encourages thoughts and prayers for children and families Gov. Justice asks West Virginia to vote in USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice contest X Website Gov. Justice presents Medal of Valor award to three first responders  Photo Album X Watch First Lady Justice announces plans for annual Bunny Brunch and Easter Celebration First Lady Cathy Justice announced plans for the 2024 Bunny Brunch and Easter Celebration, which will be held Saturday, March 23, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the West Virginia Culture Center at the State Capitol Complex in Charleston. "Year after year, the Easter celebration enchants hearts and ignites joy across our community," First Lady Cathy Justice said. "From the egg hunt to petting zoo, to story time with the Princesses, there's an abundance of activities awaiting families of all ages. Jim and I extend our warmest invitation, urging everyone to join us in this extraordinary occasion." Read More X Gov. Justice issues statement on negotiations with federal Department of Education Click here to read Gov. Justice's full statement Gov. Justice issued a statement regarding ongoing negotiations between his office and the federal Department of Education concerning COVID-19 funding sent directly from the federal government to county school boards and higher education institutions. Gov. Justice announces FY 2024 revenue collections $428 million ahead of estimate Gov. Justice announced that West Virginia’s General Revenue collections for February 2024, the eighth month of Fiscal Year 2024, came in at $283.4 million, which is $30.62 million below the official estimate. Cumulative collections for Fiscal Year 2024 of more than $3.581 billion stand at $428.1 million ahead of the cumulative estimate. “While February's revenue came in slightly below our expectations, it's important to remember this is due to the timing of certain personal income tax credits,” Gov. Justice said. “West Virginia's economy continues to be strong and diversified, as evidenced by our year-to-date surplus exceeding estimates by $428 million so far. Looking ahead, I remain very confident in West Virginia’s long-term financial health." Read More Also this week: Gov. Justice and WVDNR announce meeting locations to discuss proposed hunting, trapping and fishing regulations  Foster care coalition launches statewide recruitment campaign to address foster parent shortage West Virginia Department of Human Services recognizes Social Work Month Students from across West Virginia set to compete in 2024 West Virginia Bridge Design and Build contest finals ###