The West Virginia Senate convened on March 13, 2025, with a focus on honoring healthcare professionals and community representatives during a session filled with introductions and acknowledgments.
The meeting began with a prayer led by Dr. Jess Jesse Wagner, Sr., pastor of Mount Calvary Baptist Church, who emphasized the importance of wisdom and duty among the senators. Following the prayer, the Senate approved the journal from the previous day without objection.
A significant highlight of the session was the recognition of healthcare workers from across the state. Senators took a moment to express gratitude for their contributions, noting that West Virginia hospitals treated over 5 million patients and delivered 16,000 babies in the past year. The economic impact of these hospitals was also underscored, with nearly 53,000 employees and an annual contribution of $14 billion to the state's economy.
In addition to healthcare acknowledgments, the Senate welcomed various guests, including representatives from Tucker County and the VFW, as well as members of the American Heart Association, who participated in "Wear Red Day" to raise awareness for heart health.
The session also featured the introduction of several honorary pages and their families, further fostering a sense of community within the chamber. Despite a request to suspend certain rules for a page's parent, the motion was not granted, highlighting the procedural nature of Senate operations.
Overall, the session underscored the Senate's commitment to recognizing the vital roles played by healthcare professionals and community leaders in West Virginia, setting a tone of appreciation and collaboration for the legislative work ahead.