AGP Executive Report

PFAS Fallout in West Virginia: EPA, DOJ and WV DEP announced a landmark $450 million Chemours settlement over “forever chemicals,” including alleged PFAS discharges affecting the Ohio River and funding for alternative drinking water and compliance upgrades. SNAP Court Fight: A federal judge struck down SNAP restrictions in multiple states, including West Virginia’s soda ban, dealing a blow to states that tried to limit what recipients can buy. Local Transit Changes: Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation will replace several low-ridership routes with on-demand KRTplus starting July 20, while keeping some Route 10 service. America 250 Events: West Virginia communities are gearing up for Independence Day and the 250th anniversary, from Clarksburg’s Liberty Market kickoff to Moundsville’s July 4 lineup. Sports Spotlight: West Virginia’s Class AAAA baseball all-state teams were announced, led by George Washington’s Jon Fala as captain, plus St. Albans’ Braxton Burke and Brogan Samms earning top honors. Community Service: United Way’s Day of Action drew about 150 volunteers for projects across the Mid-Ohio Valley.

Plastics Fight: West Virginia joined a 17-state lawsuit challenging California’s single-use plastics packaging law, arguing it violates the Constitution and will raise costs for everyday goods. SNAP Ruling: A federal judge blocked West Virginia’s SNAP waiver that barred soda purchases, ordering officials to revisit the policy. PFAS Fallout: A proposed federal consent decree would require Chemours to pay $22.5 million in civil penalties tied to “forever chemicals,” with West Virginia potentially receiving more than $11 million; an attorney says the science and exposure limits could make the deal “meaningless.” Workplace Safety: Public Citizen urged the Senate to reject proposed OSHA funding cuts, warning they could endanger workers. Prison Drone Case: Federal prosecutors indicted 12 people accused of using heavy-payload drones to drop drugs and contraband into federal prisons, including alleged drops into West Virginia. Energy: The PSC set a public comment hearing for July 15 on a $2.48B gas-electric plant and solar projects in Monongalia County and beyond. Local Notes: Alderson’s Fourth of July celebration returns with a bigger fireworks show and a new launch site; Harrisville unveiled an America250 mural on Main Street. Sports: WVU and Virginia Tech agreed to a three-game men’s basketball series starting Dec. 5, and WVU football landed 3-star WR Chase Guers for the class of 2027.

PFAS Settlement: The Justice Department reached a $450 million deal with Chemours over “forever chemicals,” including a $22.5 million penalty and $90 million in mitigation across West Virginia, North Carolina and New Jersey—plus major commitments for clean drinking water and pollution controls. State School Funding: West Virginia Board of Education President Paul Hardesty warns enrollment declines and an outdated school aid formula could force more school closures and even trigger another lawsuit unless lawmakers act. Medicaid Update: West Virginia Department of Human Services is urging Medicaid members to prepare for new federal community engagement requirements starting Jan. 1, 2027. Infrastructure: Harrison County’s Hackers Creek Bridge is set for replacement work this year, with a July start and no full detour as the new bridge is built downstream. Public Safety: A DUI arrest in Raleigh County led to a felony charge after meth was allegedly found during a jail body scan. Sports: St. Albans’ baseball run continues to roll—players earned West Virginia Sports Writers Association all-state honors, including first-team picks for Braxton Burke and Brogan Samms.

Prison Drone Crackdown: DOJ says a “heavy payload” drone network smuggled meth, phones, tobacco, and weapons into federal prisons, with drops tied to a former daycare “Lab” in Georgia and prisons including West Virginia. Foster Care Overhaul: West Virginia lawmakers updated the system for kids entering foster care, requiring an electronic card so caregivers can buy clothes and approved essentials quickly. SNAP Soda Ban Blocked: A federal judge stopped five states (including West Virginia) from restricting SNAP purchases of soda and candy, saying USDA exceeded its authority. Forever Chemicals Settlement: Gov. Josh Stein criticized a $450M Chemours settlement, arguing North Carolina may see little impact while money flows to communities in West Virginia and New Jersey. Flood Recovery Watch: Ten years after the Elk River flood, Clendenin marks recovery—while residents still fear rain. Public Health & Safety: Cheat Lake’s Millstone Beach stays closed after a health inspection found multiple code violations, and West Virginia crews assess Boone County flood damage after a state of emergency. Cancer Screening Access: WVU’s LUCAS mobile lung screening unit will visit Lewis and Upshur counties in mid-July, with options for insured and qualifying uninsured patients. Community Life: A new hands-free sunscreen dispenser was unveiled in Clarksburg to boost sun safety and melanoma prevention.

SNAP Court Win: A federal judge struck down West Virginia’s (and other states’) SNAP limits on buying soda, candy and other sugary foods, saying the government can’t ignore its own rules while trying to steer healthier choices. Greyhound Fight: West Virginia lawmakers urged Sens. Shelley Moore Capito and Jim Justice to back a federal farm-bill bid to ban greyhound racing and outlaw related gambling. Data Center Backlash: Hundreds packed a Warwood town hall after news of a proposed data center at the former Centre Foundry & Machine site, with residents raising concerns about impacts and misinformation. Hope Scholarship Surge: West Virginia’s Hope Scholarship program topped 26,000+ full applications for 2026-27, with the program’s current-year cost pegged at $155 million. Local Events: Beckley hosts the 2026 Bill Withers Festival June 27, and Appalachian Recovery holds a “Recover. Connect. Rise.” outreach event June 24 in Hico. Health Access: WVU’s LUCAS mobile lung cancer screening unit is scheduled to visit Lewis and Upshur counties in mid-July, with uninsured patients potentially covered through grant support.

SNAP Court Ruling: A federal judge (Amy Berman Jackson) blocked the Trump administration’s push to let states restrict SNAP purchases of soda, candy and other sugary drinks, saying USDA can’t change SNAP’s definition of “food” through waivers—directly hitting West Virginia and four other states. Flooding Watch: Heavy rain left localized flooding across southern West Virginia, with crews assessing damage after some areas saw several inches in hours. Public Health/Heat: A federal extreme heat risk map warns many states could face triple-digit heat index conditions soon, with West Virginia in the broader danger zone as the pattern shifts. Local Services: Riverstone Community Services expanded into Wood County to provide full bed kits for children in need. Health Access: WVU Medicine’s “Bonnie’s Bus” mobile mammography unit is scheduled to visit multiple West Virginia counties in late July for 3D screenings and education. Accountability in Benefits Fraud: A Bridgeport physician assistant was sentenced to 12 months for falsifying VA disability records and triggering $242,528 in discharged student loans, with restitution ordered. Community & Education: Concord University received a Purple Star Award for its support of military-connected students and families. Road Work: WVDOH announced a multi-week closure for Upper Lamberts Run Road for reclamation and paving.

Federal Court & SNAP: A federal judge blocked the Trump administration from restricting SNAP purchases of sugary foods and drinks in five states, saying USDA lacked authority to approve the limits. State Politics & Energy: Gov. Jim Justice cut the ribbon on an 11-mile, 4-lane Corridor H stretch from Kerens to Parsons, with more miles still to come toward the Virginia line. Public Safety & Courts: A Bridgeport woman, Christina Nolte, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison for falsifying VA medical records to get disability benefits and discharge $242,528 in student loans; she must repay $355,179.13. Health Access: WVU Medicine’s “Bonnie’s Bus” mobile mammography unit will visit multiple West Virginia counties in late July, offering 3D screenings and help enrolling for free/low-cost exams. Local Government: Bridgeport City Council discussed possible e-bike rules, with debate focused on safety education and child supervision requirements. Community & Sports: Wheeling Park grad Elizabeth Romanek was crowned Miss West Virginia 2026, and Sherman High’s Luke Tagliente earned Class A all-state baseball captain honors.

SNAP Fight: A federal judge blocked the Trump administration from approving state SNAP “food restriction” waivers that would bar recipients from buying items like soda and candy, saying USDA exceeded its authority and skipped required public notice. Education Funding: West Virginia’s Hope Scholarship is surging—26,617 students applied for full funding for 2026-27, with an estimated $155 million cost so far, as the program expands eligibility. State Politics/Policy: A 17-state coalition, including West Virginia, is suing to stop California’s Plastics Act, arguing it violates constitutional limits on state power and raises costs nationwide. WVU Campus: WVU will raise parking citation and permit pricing starting July 1, including higher first-time ticket costs and a new late fee. Weather Alert: Severe thunderstorm watches are active across parts of the Mid-Atlantic and far eastern West Virginia, with damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornado risk possible. Sports/Recruiting: WVU’s baseball transfer portal tracker shows multiple additions and departures as the roster reshapes for next season.

Coal & Accountability: A ProPublica report says Trump DOJ officials shut down a Clean Water Act criminal probe into Sen. Jim Justice’s coal operations, after years of pollution settlements and violations tied to Southern Coal. Public Safety & Courts: A Bluefield man faces felony and misdemeanor charges after police say he tried to take his child during a custody dispute, assaulted the child and mother, and resisted arrest. Higher Education: Marshall University’s Board of Governors approved buying nearly four acres in downtown Huntington for its future medical school site. Racing Law: A federal court again ruled the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s enforcement power unconstitutional, calling it an improper “judge, jury and executioner” setup. Local Politics: A West Virginia lawmaker critic says recent interim meetings lacked substance, asking “Where’s the beef?” over tax and audit updates. Schools: Ohio County’s school board is set to consider a vote on shifting start times later—an argument says it’s rushed and should wait for the next board. Sports & Community: Morgantown softball star Madison Wisman was named 2026 State Softball Player of the Year. Culture: Tamarack Marketplace in Beckley celebrated its 30th anniversary, highlighting local arts and artisans.

Trade & Prices: A new Cleveland Fed report says Trump-era tariffs and uncertainty are pushing up costs for businesses in Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Kentucky—and some of that is getting passed to customers. Protests & Politics: “No Kings” rallies drew thousands across West Virginia, including a large Charleston turnout with older residents and a heavy police presence. Food Assistance Fight: A House GOP reconciliation plan would cut SNAP by nearly $300 billion through 2034, a roughly 30% cut that would hit millions. Local Justice: A federal grand jury indicted two former Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office employees in a multi-million-dollar fraud scheme involving forged checks and conservator account assets. West Virginia Day: Blennerhassett Island marked West Virginia Day with living-history activities tied to the state’s Civil War-era origins. Weather Watch: Severe storms and heavy rain are expected to move across West Virginia on Monday. Charleston Cleanup: City leaders say Davis Park beautification work is underway after winter and utility construction delays. Sports: WVU’s historic baseball season ended in the College World Series, while West Virginia athletes and coaches earned statewide honors.

West Virginia Day: Gov. Patrick Morrisey signed a proclamation recognizing June 20 as West Virginia Day, marking the state’s 163rd anniversary and urging residents to look back at the Mountain State’s Civil War-era birth and forward to America’s 250th. Local Elections: Wood County is consolidating voting precinct locations for the November general election, with nine proposed changes aimed at easing poll-worker shortages and keeping sites close to original locations. Public Safety/Travel: The U.S. Forest Service is starting phased repairs to flood-damaged roads in the Monongahela National Forest, including Forest Road 76 (Cranberry) and Forest Road 86 (Williams River), with temporary closures expected. Health & Science: A new AP-NORC poll finds most Americans disapprove of how President Trump is handling Iran, while a separate report highlights a rare medical case involving a person declared dead who later showed signs of life. Economy & Debt: WalletHub ranks states by debt delinquency, with West Virginia listed among the higher-debt-delinquency states. WVU Costs: The WVU Board of Governors approved FY2027 tuition increases, while noting enrollment has declined. Sports: West Virginia’s College World Series run ended after a loss to North Carolina, while the NCAA finals matchup is set for Oklahoma vs. North Carolina. Community Celebrations: Wheeling marked West Virginia Day at Independence Hall, and events also drew crowds in Huntington, Beckley, and Randolph County for Celtic festival festivities.

WVU Tuition & Fees: The WVU Board of Governors approved the FY2027 budget, including a 3% in-state and 6% out-of-state undergraduate tuition hike, plus a doubled Mountaineer Athletic Advantage Fee for fall 2026 and spring 2027—while enrollment on the Morgantown campus fell year over year. College Baseball: North Carolina and Oklahoma meet in Game 1 of the College World Series championship series in Omaha, with both teams entering unbeaten and pitching staffs well-rested. Local Sports Spotlight: Morgantown’s Madison Wisman capped a historic run by throwing every inning in the Class AAAA state softball tournament and earning top statewide honors. Medicaid Spending Watch: New Martinsville radiology payments totaled $36,871 in 2024, and Fairmont dental services rose to $278,383—showing continued shifts in where health dollars flow. West Virginia Day & Community: Events across the state marked June 20, including a West Virginia Day celebration at Blennerhassett Island and a Fairfax Slave Cemetery dedication in Arthurdale. Culture & Heritage: The West Virginia Celtic Festival drew thousands to Randolph County, celebrating Scottish and Irish traditions with music and Highland games. Environment & Science: Researchers say West Virginia’s darker skies may be helping fireflies, even as light pollution grows.

Brooke County Courts: A Brooke County grand jury indicted 24 people, including Charles Holden, 47, facing DUI causing serious bodily injury, leaving the scene, obstructing an officer, and meth possession after an Eldersville Road crash. State Politics: Ohio County Republicans picked three candidates to temporarily fill the District 4 House of Delegates seat—excluding primary winner Derek Ennis because he wasn’t a GOP member for the required 365 days. Education Freedom: An op-ed argues West Virginia’s Hope Scholarship is now fully open to all students under universal eligibility, calling it a “gold standard” for education choice. Cancer Care Law: Another piece highlights Jessica Huffman’s Law, which requires insurance coverage for scalp cooling to reduce hair loss during chemotherapy. Health Care: Memorial Health System added three dermatology providers—Dr. B. Asher Louden, Dr. Janelle King, and PA Heather Mossbarger—expanding access in the Mid-Ohio Valley. Local Government: Parkersburg City Council will consider whether a referendum petition is sufficient to repeal the city’s trash-service contract, while Waste Management provides emergency pickup. Community & Culture: Leadership West Virginia wrapped a session near the New River Gorge, and the Ohio County Cemeteries Foundation plans a free restoration workshop at Peninsula Cemetery. Sports: WVU’s historic season ended in the College World Series, and the UNC-Oklahoma finals matchup is set for Saturday.

West Virginia Day: Gov. Jim Justice’s successor Patrick Morrisey signed a proclamation marking June 20 as West Virginia Day, celebrating the state’s 163-year legacy and tying it to America’s 250th anniversary. WVU Athletics: The WVU Board of Governors backed a $1.3 billion operating budget and approved tuition/fee hikes for FY 2027, while the Mountaineers’ historic College World Series run ended with a loss to North Carolina. College Baseball: WVU’s first-ever MCWS appearance included a rematch vs. Troy and a run to the final four, with fans and players already looking ahead to next season. Public Safety: A search for missing Richwood woman Mary Catherine Green was paused as state police pursue new leads; separately, Randolph County investigators found remains and a vehicle tied to a man missing for 10 days. Local Community & Culture: Free West Virginia Day events are set at the Capitol Complex, and outdoor wins keep coming with new trail openings like the Meadow River Rail Trail section in Rainelle.

College Sports: Morgantown’s Maddie Wisman capped a historic run with four straight shutout wins and was named captain of the Class AAAA All-State First Team after going 22-5 in the circle with a 1.23 ERA and a .484 batting average. Local Sports: Winfield’s Mattie Carroll also landed on the Class AAA All-State first team, adding to a fourth straight state title for the Generals. Public Health: With Lyme cases rising and tick bites increasing, Kanawha-Charleston and Fayette health departments are offering doxycycline within 72 hours of a bite to prevent illness. State Politics/Planning: West Virginia Democrats warn HB2014 could strip local control over zoning, including for data centers, by overriding local ordinances. Infrastructure: Boone County drivers should expect delays on U.S. 119 near the Jill Micah Hess Bridge as crews shift traffic Friday. Safety/Crime: A vehicle and human remains were found in Randolph County tied to a missing 82-year-old man with dementia; the medical examiner will identify the remains. National/World: Sen. Shelley Moore Capito says any Iran deal should come before the U.S. Senate, while an AP-NORC poll finds most Americans disapprove of Trump’s Iran handling.

Public Safety & Weather: A tornado warning hit parts of southern West Virginia Thursday morning as severe thunderstorms moved through Raleigh and nearby counties, with officials urging residents to stay alert. State Government: Gov. Patrick Morrisey appointed Aaron Snodgrass as West Virginia’s new state budget director, stepping in after long-tenured departures. Economic Development Leadership: The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority’s executive director, Jina Belcher, resigned; the board named Amy Showalter as acting executive director. Health Care Access: WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital expanded pediatric sleep medicine services via a new collaboration with sleep specialist David Gozal, aiming to reduce travel for families. Public Funding for Victims: West Virginia released more than $700,000 in grants to rural organizations supporting domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking victims. Justice & Courts: A West Virginia lawmaker was named in a foiled White House/UFC terror plot tied to targeted lawmakers; separately, federal prosecutors announced a fentanyl trafficking sentencing in Clarksburg. Sports: WVU baseball returned home after a historic College World Series run that ended with a loss to North Carolina.