West Virginia House Republicans’ ‘Jobs First’ Agenda Nears Completion

CHARLESTON – As of March 14, 2026, ten out of sixteen bills comprising the West Virginia House of Delegates’ “Jobs First – Opportunity Everywhere” economic development package have passed the legislature, with one already signed into law by Governor Patrick Morrisey. The agenda, unveiled in December 2025, aims to stimulate economic growth and job creation across the state.

Origins of the ‘Jobs First’ Agenda

House Speaker Roger Hanshaw, R-Clay, initially presented the “Jobs First – Opportunity Everywhere” package during December legislative interim meetings. Hanshaw emphasized the importance of a strong job market, stating, “Putting jobs first works everywhere. whatever the issue, it’s most effectively solved in an environment that has a robust jobs economy.” The Intelligencer reported that West Virginians expressed a desire for economic growth and job creation to be central to public policy.

Key Bills Passed

Several key bills within the “Jobs First” agenda have been approved by the legislature. These include:

• HB 4007: Increases financial limits for projects funded through the Industrial Access Road Fund, doubling available funding for county projects. The bill also streamlines the project request process and clarifies fund usage for economic development sites. The Intelligencer noted this bill could significantly benefit businesses needing infrastructure improvements.
• SB 1: Establishes the West Virginia First Small Business Growth Program, providing financing to eligible small businesses through investments and non-refundable tax credits for investors. This bill combines provisions from HB 4003 and was a priority for Senate President Randy Smith, R-Preston. The Intelligencer reported a joint statement from Smith and Hanshaw praising the bill’s support for small businesses.
• HB 4002: Creates the West Virginia Collaboratory at Marshall University, a research initiative focused on economic development, workforce training and natural resource management.
• HB 4004: Establishes Recharge West Virginia, reimbursing employers up to $50,000 annually for employee skill enhancement, contingent on industry-recognized credentials and a 25% salary increase.
• HB 4005: Creates the Workforce Development Act of 2026, expanding vocational opportunities through youth apprenticeships.
• HB 4008: Establishes the Certified Sites and Development Readiness Program, providing funding for land preparation and utility access.
• HB 4009: Creates the Voluntary Portable Benefits Plan Act, allowing independent contractors access to benefits like health insurance and retirement savings.
• HB 4028: Provides a tax exemption for contractors on services and materials used for public school facilities.
• HB 4784: Extends tax incentives for businesses in federally designated Qualified Opportunity Zones until 2033.
• SB 250 & HB 4765: Provide a 3% average pay raise for public employees, including teachers and state police.

Industry Response

Brian Dayton, vice president for policy and advocacy at the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce, expressed optimism about the package, stating it sends a “really good message” to businesses considering locating or expanding in West Virginia. The Intelligencer reported Dayton’s belief that the focus on jobs and economic development will boost business confidence.

Bills Not Passed

House Bill 4001, which would have established TEAM-WV – a private, non-profit corporation modeled after JobsOhio – did not pass. Although approved by the House, it was not taken up by the Senate Finance Committee. House Finance Committee Vice Chairman Clay Riley, R-Harrison, indicated plans to revisit the legislation in the future.

Additional Legislative Focus

Beyond the “Jobs First” agenda, lawmakers also focused on expanding access to affordable childcare, recognizing its impact on workforce participation. SB 250 includes $5 million to expand an eight-county tri-share pilot program, and HB 4191 proposes tax credits for businesses supporting childcare for their employees.