About Our Members

Associated Builders & Contractors of West Virginia

MISSION:

ABC West Virginia promotes free enterprise and open competition within the construction industry and creating opportunities for employees, employers, and investors based solely on merit.

The Vision of ABC is an environment in which people and companies succeed based on free enterprise principles within the free-market system.

The Core Purpose of ABC is to advance and defend the principles of the merit shop in the construction industry and to provide members and their employees with an opportunity to succeed.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Education Reform & Workforce Development - ABCWV recognizes the crucial importance of improving education as a long-term commitment to enhancing WV's economy. In addition to providing quality public & private education from kindergarten through college, WV needs to encourage students who are not college bound to participate in vocational/technical training programs. Students can benefit from vocational/ workforce training in a high-paying skill/trade while attending high school. The training students receive in these programs can ensure that our state has a trained workforce capable of meeting the demands of the 21st century economy.

* Regulatory Reform - ABCWV has acknowledged the continuously overwhelming regulatory environment that West Virginia businesses must operate in and more importantly, are a hindrance to new investment and economic growth. Although some improvements to this type of overregulation have been made, we still recognize the need for much more to be done at a legislative and executive level to promote a more prosperous and fair economic environment for all industries including commercial and industrial construction.

* Tax reform - Despite significant challenges facing West Virginia from a budget perspective, an overhaul of our tax system is critical to the success of the state moving forward. There are many different angles to pursue, but addressing a more friendly tax climate by addressing taxes such as the equipment and inventory tax will help promote the use of safer and more efficient equipment and relieve the strain of any already overtaxed manufacturing and supply industry which is one of the cornerstones of our economy.

* Paycheck Protection - Workers in West Virginia have been and continue to be subject to financing issue advocacy efforts and political causes against their own will and personal values at the behest of third party special interest groups. Workers, from every industry and economic sector should be given the simple choice as to how their hard-earned money should be spent with regards to representation in the political and public policy arenas. The fact that hard working families are forced to subsidize efforts to elect leaders and promote causes they whole-heartedly disagree with and that violate their personal values and beliefs is an appalling reality that must come to an end in West Virginia.

CONTACT:

Bryan J. Hoylman,

President and CEO

P.O. Box 3695, Charleston, WV 25339

[email protected]

abcwv.org

Builders Supply Association of West Virginia

MISSION:

The Builders Supply Association of West Virginia is a voluntary trade association for suppliers of the construction industry and their suppliers and contractors throughout West Virginia. It's our mission to provide the most effective leadership possible in the identification and resolution of problems and the development of opportunities affecting the construction materials industry.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Transportation Funding - As our State is aware of the present needs and conditions of our highway system, continued and creative funding must be in the forefront. Along with overall infrastructure improvement, transportation funding not only leads to job and economic growth, its immediate impact creates jobs.

* Fair Legal Statutes - Our States needs a legislation revamp of the Mechanics Lien Law statue, whereas all involved parties (home owners, material suppliers, laborers and contractors) of single family home projects shall have an equal and fair defense under the law.

* Educational Programs - West Virginia needs to continue along the lines of an increased educational emphasis, creating higher educational standards, as a means to ensure our workforce is ready for the 21st century and beyond.

CONTACT:

Dole Hill, Executive Director

Tammy Carney, Administrative Assistant

400 Allen Drive, Suite 50,

Charleston, WV 25302

Phone: (304) 342-2450

Fax: (304) 342-2511

[email protected]; [email protected]

www.bsa-wv.co

Contractors Association of West Virginia

MISSION:

The Contractors Association of West Virginia represents more than 425 businesses and 15,000 employees who are "Hard at Work" building safe roads and bridges, modern schools and hospitals, and water and sewer treatment systems. These facilities increase the quality of life for all West Virginians and create the infrastructure that is essential to future economic development and jobs in our state.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Jobs - In 2014 and 2015, West Virginia led the nation with the steepest year-over-year decline in construction employment. West Virginia ranked 51st out of 50 states and the District of Columbia for over 18 consecutive months. In the past six years, contractors nationwide have increased their workforce by more than 20%. In contrast, construction employment in West Virginia has fluctuated around the 2011 low point. Seasonally adjusted employment in the state in November 2016 tied the year-earlier level, 30,600, which was the smallest total since January 1994. A recent increase in coal and natural gas production has resulted in no loss of construction jobs between November 2015 and November 2016, which is much better than the year-over-year decreases that had occurred in each of the previous 20 months. However, if there is no new funding for highway and bridge projects, schools, and water and sewer facilities, West Virginia could soon revert to again being 51st in the nation ranking.

* Highway and Infrastructure Investment - West Virginia's economy is dependent upon a safe and modern transportation system. Without a long-range plan and sustainable revenues, West Virginia's surface transportation network will deteriorate - impacting mobility, safety, jobs and the state's overall economic well-being. Funding for safe drinking water, adequate sewer facilities and modern school facilities is also critical if the state is to compete for business and development.

A recent report shows that an additional $500 million per year in highway funding would create or support nearly 10,000 jobs. Of these, nearly 47 percent of the jobs would be created outside of the construction industry in areas such as tourism, retail and manufacturing.

(To view of copy of "The Economic Impact of an Annual $500 Million Increase in Highway and Bridge Construction Investment in West Virginia", visit the CAWV's website at www.cawv.org).

CONTACT:

Mike Clowser, Executive Director

2114 Kanawha Bfvd, East

Charleston, WV 25311

Phone: (304) 342-1166

[email protected]

www.cawv.org

Home Builders Association of West Virginia

MISSION:

Founded in 1959, the Home Builders Association of West Virginia represents builders, developers and providers of products and services. The association promotes the home building industry through:

* Fostering business opportunities among members

* Advocating members' interests in the legislative and regulatory process

* Providing member and consumer education

* Promoting ethical and quality business practices

POLICY PRIORITIES:

Benefits of membership include:

* Legislative - Both the State and National Associations have full time lobbyists who are diligent in monitoring issues that would have positive and adverse effects on the home building industry (including licensing, codes, regulations, taxes, and lien laws). As many of our members have rental property, we also watch any proposals to landlord/ tenant laws. These lobbyists are "in house at the Capitol" daily to educate and answer questions that legislators might have concerning pending issues affecting the home building industry.

* Discount Opportunities - from partners who offer discounts on their purchases for products and services (including GM, Hertz/Avis/Budget, Dell/HP computers, Workers' Compensation discounts for qualifying members though BrickStreet, Health, Dental, Life Insurance Plans and 401K Financial Plan and Member Rebate Program.

* Education - A strong focus in offering programs on new products, building techniques and codes. A new product is being developed that will be launched statewide to provide information to contractors and consumers about compliance of the new energy code and its many consumer advantages.

CONTACT:

2220 Washington St. East, Suite 1

Charleston, WV 25311

Phone: (304) 342-5176

www.hbawv.ofg

Independent Insurance Agents of West Virginia

MISSION:

It is the mission of the IIAWV to be an unrelenting advocate for independent insurance agents and to fulfill member's needs while serving the public's best interest.

Independent Insurance Agents of West Virginia is the oldest, largest and most effective insurance trade association in the state. For over 115 years, the "Big I" has served West Virginia's independent insurance agents, developing programs and helping members achieve more collectively than they can individually.

The commitment to help independent agents run their businesses fairly and profitably is as strong today as it was more than 100 years ago.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

IIAWV supports pro-business legislation and regulation that keeps the insurance climate in West Virginia healthy and competitive, ensuring that the future of the independent agency system stays viable.

* Legal Reform - While major steps were taken in the previous legislative session, we must continue to reform West Virginia's legal system. We would support legislation that bases damage awards on the amount actually paid with consideration given to other sources of payments received.

The Independent Insurance Agents of West Virginia believe its mission, operational strategies and legislative priorities are ultimately good for the consumer by stimulating a competitive insurance marketplace providing consumers with many insurance choices.

CONTACT:

Janet S. Vineyard

2006 Kanawha Bfvd. East

Charleston WV 25311

Phone: (304)342-2440

Mobile: (304)415-2497

Email: [email protected]

Independent Oil & Gas Association of West Virginia

MISSION:

The Independent Oil and Gas Association of West Virginia Inc., formed in 1959, is a not-for-profit corporation representing all producers and companies engaged in the extraction and production of natural gas and oil in West Virginia. IOGA's purpose is to promote and protect a strong, competitive and capable independent natural gas and oil producing industry in West Virginia through:

* Identifying and educating our members of the challenges and opportunities confronting our industry.

* Educating the general public, elected and appointed representatives about the importance of the industry.

* Encouraging and projecting a unity of purpose among our membership.

* Protecting and improving both the business and natural environment of our state.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* IOGA is the largest trade association of oil and gas producers in WV.

* Over 600 producer members and those that serve them.

* Represents the interests of ALL oil and gas producers, LARGE, SMALL, Marcellus and Conventional

* Serves every aspect of the industry, including, exploration, drilling, production, transmission, marketing

IOGAWV's top priorities include:

* Reform the Aboveground öround Storage Tank Act

* Introduce and pass legislation permitting lease integration/co-tenancy.

CONTACT:

Charlie Byrd, Executive Director

300 Summers St., Suite 820

Charleston, WV 25301

Voice: (304] 344-9867

Fax: (304) 344-5836

E-mail: [email protected]

West Virginia Association of Health Plans

MISSION:

The West Virginia Association of Health Plans (WVAHP) is comprised of West Virginia's four Managed Care Organizations: Aetna Better Health of West Virginia, The Health Plan of the Upper Ohio Valley, Unicare and West Virginia Family Health. Often referred to as "MCOs", the WVAHP's member companies - through public-private partnerships with the state - administer portions of West Virginia's Medicaid program. Outside of the Medicaid world, a portion of the WVAHP's member companies compete in the commercial healthcare marketplace. In the Medicaid realm, the managed care model employed by the WVAHP's member companies provide distinct benefits to the state.

* Budget Predictability - The state pays MCOs a permember, per-month flat fee to administer covered benefits. If an individual's care exceeds that permember, per-month flat fee, the excess costs are borne by the MCO, not the state.

* Lower Healthcare Costs - Direct negotiation with providers, coordination of patient care and a competitive marketplace drive healthcare costs down.

* Better Outcomes - MCOs assist Medicaid recipients in navigating the health care system to obtain appropriate medical and preventive care, leading to better health outcomes.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

The WVAHP is committed to improving the health of West Virginia's citizens; a full transition of West Virginia's Medicaid program into managed care; improved quality and oversight of West Virginia's Medicaid program through a healthy partnership with the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources; continued development of the commercial marketplace and a level playing field for commercial and Medicaid companies.

CONTACT:

Andrew Kirkner, Executive Director

707 Virginia St. lost #1300

Charleston, WV 25301

(304) 357-9902

[email protected]

West Virginia Association of Realtors

MISSION:

Our goal is the promotion of regulatory and legislative action favorable to member's business successes. We do this by working closely with the West Virginia Real Estate Commission on the law and rules that impact the real estate industry.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

As the voice for real estate in West Virginia, the purpose of the West Virginia Association of REALTORS® is:

* To serve and represent it's members in regulatory and legislative matters;

* To keep the REALTOR®, central to the real estate transaction;

* To promote member integrity, competency and responsible citizenship;

* And to advocate and protect private property rights and equal housing opportunity.

CONTACT:

Raymond Joseph, CEO

2110 Kanawha Blvd. East

Charleston WV 25311

Phone: (304) 342-7600

Fax: (304) 343-5811

West Virginia Automobile & Truck Dealers Association

MISSION:

The mission of the West Virginia Automobile & Truck Dealers Association is to encourage sound business policies, facilitate the exchange of ideas among our members, foster progressive legislation, discourage destructive, retrogressive legislation, cooperate with other motor vehicle trade associations and promote confidence, respect and good fellowship among all of those directly or indirectly engaged in the motor vehicle industry.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

Burdens placed on smaller businesses create several issues that many do not have the personnel to handle. After the 2008 bankruptcies, franchised dealerships have, like many others, reduced personnel. Few dealerships employee full time human resources managers, environmental managers and other types of individuals who could concentrate sole on those issues. Compliance with both state and federal mandates are very time consuming. To further complicate the matter, many mandates are handled by multiple agencies that many times contradict each other.

Frivolous litigation continues to drain resources that could better used to hire more employees, invest in facilities, inventory and higher wages for employees. The "demand letters or better," "green mail" threats of litigation plague our industry. The passage of the Right to Cure has helped somewhat, but the demands for unreasonable amounts of money continue to be a problem.

Unfair tax systems are of particular concerns. West Virginia is one of a very few states that impose a tax on inventories. As high ticket items, vehicles create a very high cost to dealers. This tax is not noted on the sales contracts, like B&O, has to be built into the product. Particularly for dealerships on the borders, this cost can range upwards of $400.00 per unit.

Overall, all levels of government must be curtailed to leave the money in the private sector to grow the economy. Government does not create wealth, only the private sector does.

CONTACT:

Ruth R. Lemmon, President

Post Office Box 2028

1618 Kanawha Blvd. East

Charleston, WV 25327

Phone: (304) 343-4158

Email: [email protected]

www.wvcar.com

West Virginia Beverage Association

MISSION:

West Virginia's soft drink industry plays an important role in our state's economy by providing good-paying jobs, paying significant tax dollars to the state and federal government, and making generous charitable contributions to organizations across the state. While West Virginia's soft drink industry contributes to West Virginia in a myriad of ways, the industry is burdened with paying a discriminatory excise tax on its products. The primary objective of the West Virginia Beverage Association is repealing the West Virginia soft drinks tax. While the industry is willing to pay its fair share in taxes to support the state's revenue base, we believe that the total tax liability must be fairly distributed among all corporate taxpayers.

Soft drink companies are important to West Virginia's economy. They directly employ more than 1,300 West Virginians in well-paid jobs that provide health care and retirement benefits. Additionally, more than 4,142 workers in restaurants, grocery stores, convenience stores, movie theaters and more depend, in part, on beverage sales for their livelihoods. In total, the soft drink industry contributes nearly $1 billion ($968.8 million) to West Virginia's economy. These contributions should be applauded, not unfairly burdened with regressive, discriminatory taxes. West Virginia is one of only two states in the union that imposes this blatantly unfair tax.

The Governor's Commission on Fair Taxation, a broad-based group of tax experts, recommended the repeal of the tax. All West Virginia citizens will benefit from following the Commission's recommendation and repealing the tax. West Virginia would enjoy a more equitable tax system. Moreover, reductions in the cost of doing business are passed along to soft drink consumers.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Soft Drink Tax - The soft drink tax is a discriminatory tax that no other state besides Arkansas imposes. The tax costs West Virginia jobs and unfairly burdens consumers. It is an overreaching government intrusion into the grocery carts of all West Virginians. It should be repealed.

* Bottle Bill - The Bottle Bill is a bad idea for West Virginia. Bottle deposits are a thinly veiled tax and deposit systems are a big government bureaucracy that poorly manages recycling efforts that are better left with municipal and county governments. Deposits are a costly and outmoded approach that hinders better, more efficient environmental solutions, like curbside recycling.

CONTACT:

Lorry Swann, President

Laîdley Tower

500 Lee St. East

Suite 113GB

Charleston, WV 25301

Phone: (304) 346-9883

www.wvbeverage.com

West Virginia Cable Telecommunications Association

MISSION:

WVCTA represents companies providing video, broadband, telephone and security services to West Virginia residential and business customers. The Association's member companies comprise over 95 percent of the state's cable delivered video customers. Major members include: Suddenlink, Comcast, Shentel, Time Warner and Armstrong.

West Virginia's cable providers have pioneered the development of broadband services in the state, and have invested approximately $2 billion over the last 15 years to bring advanced video, Internet, telephone and security services to our customers. All of WVCTA's members greatly exceed the broadband speed standard set by the Federal Communications Commission - with nearly every cable broadband customer in the state already having access to speeds of 50 MB or more and most having the ability to purchase service at a level of 100 MB in their homes.

In addition, Suddenlink has announced investment plans that will make 1 gigabit (GB) service throughout its West Virginia footprint by 2017-providing West Virginia consumers and businesses with the most advanced speeds and services available anywhere in the country.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Opposing the entry of state or local governmental entities directly or indirectly (through contracts) into providing Broadband or other telecommunications services that compete with private companies' investments.

* Opposing the use of state government funds to assist companies in delivering Broadband or other telecommunications services that compete with private companies' investments.

* Creating a business climate more conducive to technology and high speed Broadband investments in terms of tax policy.

CONTACT:

Mark Polen, Executive Director

300 Summers St., Suite 700

Charleston, WV 25301

Office: (304) 345-2000

Mobile: (304) 545-8227

[email protected]

Chris Weikle

Office: (304) 345-2000

Mobile: (304) 685-4321

[email protected]

West Virginia Chamber of Commerce

MISSION:

The West Virginia Chamber of Commerce works to move West Virginia forward by advocating for stronger education outcomes, legal fairness and pro-economic development policies for our state. Chamber members hail from all 55 counties and employ over half of the state's workforce.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Competitive Business Climate - West Virginia has the lowest rate of workforce participation in the nation. A better jobs climate will lead to creation of more employment opportunities. An improved business climate includes a fair legal system, efficient regulatory policies and a competitive tax system.

* Education & Workforce Development - Education, talent development and job retention are the keys to our state's future, our children's future and economic growth. The West Virginia Chamber is focused on ensuring our state's education and workforce development systems are effective, agile, accountable and responsive to produce a competitive, drug-free and healthy world-class workforce.

* Infrastructure & Economic Development - West Virginia must recognize that a robust economy is built on a solid infrastructure. Transportation is vital to move people and products to larger economic markets. Air service, access to high-speed broadband internet, maintenance and construction of roadways and the continuance of the state's water & sewer enhancement program are examples to follow.

Every West Virginian should be afforded the opportunity for a quality of life that includes a healthy environment, a quality education, a goodpaying job and an efficient government that is competent and seeks only the best for its citizens.

CONTACT:

Steve Roberts, President

1624 Kanawha Blvd. East

Charleston, WV 25311

Phone: (304) 342-1115

[email protected]

West Virginia Coal Association

MISSION:

The West Virginia Coal Association represents more than 95 percent of the state's underground and surface coal mine production and myriad companies that support and rely on West Virginia coal to be mined. Our mission is to provide a unified voice representing the state's coal industry as well as increase the emphasis on coal as a reliable energy source to help America achieve energy independence.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Domestic consumption and markets are eroding primarily due to the actions of U.S. EPA and other anti-coal policies being pursued by the Obama Administration. In the past eight years, West Virginia has lost 12,000 lost mining jobs with indirect job losses exceeding 50,000 and overall tonnage cut in half (to an all-time low since keeping records), to just over 80 million tons. These declines have led to the loss of billions of dollars to the state's economy and the decimation of our southern coal counties.

* While we are working in Washington to change these policies, there are also additional issues in West Virginia that must be addressed to help us maintain long-term market viability. As such, our priorities for the 2017 legislative session include:

* Legislation to reduce costs, improve mine efficiencies and reduce unnecessary regulatory and tax burdens.

* Take steps to protect our state's coal-powered electric generation fleet, enhance grid reliability and expand investment in new technologies and new markets for our coal.

* Continue to identify and remove or revise laws that increase the cost of doing business in West Virginia without adding to human protections, safety or environmental quality.

* Incentives to assist the industry in producing greater volumes of coal and enhance the marketing of West Virginia coal to domestic and foreign markets.

CONTACT:

Bill Raney, President

([email protected])

Chris Hamilton, Sr. Vice President

([email protected])

Jason Bostic, Vice President

([email protected])

PO Box 3923, Charleston, WV 25339

Phone: (304) 342-4153

www.wvcoal.com

West Virginia Farm Bureau

MISSION:

The West Virginia Farm Bureau is an organization of people like you... productive, conscientious citizens dedicated to improving the quality of their lives and the lives of those who depend on them. We care about feeding our families, the environment, educating our children and speaking out on issues of concern. It is our organization's goal to provide leadership, education, information, training and economic services to enhance the quality of life of our members.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

The West Virginia Farm Bureau is focused on the following:

* Promote strategies/activities to confront the ongoing regulatory challenges posed by an everaggressive EPA to ensure strength and continued growth in West Virginia's agricultural economy.

* Promote reasonable and responsible legislation regulating oil and gas exploration that will protect private property/surface owners' rights and the environment, while encouraging the development of our resources. Farm Bureau supports the rights of land and mineral owners to negotiate with other parties to achieve the desired use of resources.

* Support legislative action to ensure local control on Sunday hunting, with approval only by local option at the ballot box.

* Maintain adequate funding for our predator control program.

CONTACT:

Steve Butler, Executive Secretary

62 Farm Bureau Road

Buckhannon, WV 26201

Phone: (800) 398-4630

Fax:(304)472-6554 41

Email: [email protected]

West Virginia Forestry Association

MISSION:

The West Virginia Forestry Association shall encourage and promote the full development of the forest resources of the State of West Virginia by better forest land management, improved fire protection and suppression, true conservation and better utilization of woodland resources in the state.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Develop an education program that will arouse public support and awareness of a unified conservation program including the multiple use of forests, development of natural resources, application of sound land management, and the development of our increasing wildlife, recreation, water and aesthetic values, and to encourage the wise and economical use of these valuable renewable resources.

* Promote a public awareness of the forest industry and stimulate an interest in forest management, product manufacturing, and the increased use of the forest and all its products including timber, wildlife, recreation, water, and other values.

* Encourage and solicit participation by interested landowners, land managers, and persons having a direct interest in the growth and utilization of this resource.

* Conduct educational programs and encourage practical research to help persons engaged in land management or use of the resource to meet the demands which will be placed on the forest resource.

* Provide a collective voice on research and legislation affecting the development of West Virginia's forest resource.

* Actively promote and assist in forest fire prevention and other forest production programs.

* Promote the use and principles of forest management set forth in the WV Forest Practice Standards.

CONTACT:

Frank Stewart, Executive Director

PO Box 718, Ripley, WV 25271

Phone: (304) 372-1955 "

Fax: (304) 372-1957

www.wvfa.org

Email: [email protected]

West Virginia Health Care Association

MISSION:

The West Virginia Health Care Association's mission is to advance the quality and professionalism essential to residents who receive long-term care in our communities.

We achieve our mission through education, advocacy and leadership. WVHCA develops programs and services that bring value to our members and the public.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Maintain adequate funding for West Virginia's frail and elderly population. On average, 73 percent of the people residing in nursing homes are Medicaid recipients. Without proper funding, these individuals cannot receive the care and services they desperately need.

* Curb lawsuit abuse. Out-of-state lawyers continue their attacks on West Virginia nursing homes. They actively are trying to circumvent the intent of the Medical Practice Liability Act the Legislature passed in 2015.

* Eliminate unnecessary regulation. Members of the WVHCA will work with legislators to identify ways to reduce costs created by overregulation.

CONTACT:

Patrick Kelly, CEO

110 Association Dr., Charleston, WV 25311

Phone: (304)346-4575

Email: [email protected]

wvhca.org

www.facebook.com/wvhca

wvseniorcare.com <*

West Virginia Hospital Association

MISSION:

The West Virginia Hospital Association is a notfor-profit statewide organization representing 64 hospitals and health systems across the continuum of care. The WVHA supports its members in achieving a strong, healthy West Virginia by providing leadership in healthcare advocacy, education, information and technical assistance, and by being a catalyst for effective change through collaboration, consensus building and a focus on desired outcomes.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Protect state funding for care provided to hospital patients and seek fair and adequate payments from Medicaid and PEIA in line with the cost of providing such care;

* Identify opportunities to modernize and streamline the hospital regulatory environment in West Virginia;

* Promote efforts that help improve supply, recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals; and

* Support strategies to address the challenges of substance abuse in West Virginia.

CONTACT:

Joe Letnaunchyn, President and CEO

[email protected]

(304) 353-9716

Tony Gregory, Vice President

[email protected]

(304)353-9719

100 Association Drive

Charleston, WV 25311

Office: 304-344-9744

wvha.org

West Virginia Insurance Federation

MISSION:

To be the recognized voice of the property & casualty insurance industry by advocating for a vibrant and competitive insurance climate in West Virginia.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Eliminate Personal Liability for Adjusters - The Federation will support legislation that eliminates the private cause of action against adjusters personally and would limit these actions to include only the insurance companies that the plaintiff alleges harmed him or her. Routinely, company adjusters are named as defendants when companies could be sued to forum shop and avoid federal court jurisdiction.

* Adopt Uniform Standards for Medical Protective jQydfere - The Federation will support a uniform stan^raîoithe'retentwniand proteçUsp. of medical records that creates a clear standard for the length and method of retention and complies with federal law.

* Eliminate Phantom Damages - The Federation will support legislation that bases damages awards on the amount actually paid, not damages based on the "sticker price" of medical expenses or without regard to other sources of payments. This has the effect of inflating damages awards,

CONTACT:

Jill C. Rice, President

(304) 550-0501

[email protected]

Andrew T. Kirkner

(304) 357-9902

[email protected]

West Virginia Manufacturers Association

MISSION:

The mission of the West Virginia Manufacturers Association is to create a positive environment for sustaining and developing manufacturing in West Virginia.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

RegMatory Balance - WVMA member companies are committed to safe, environmentally responsible practices. Regulatory over-reach places West Virginia at a disadvantage for economic growth and job creation. When West Virginia's regulations exceed federal standards and the standards of many of its neighboring states, it renders the state less appealing for sustained and new investment.

* Tax Reform - West Virginia remains one of few states that taxes capital investment. Reform that eliminates the property tax on manufacturing inventory and equipment would position West Virginia more competitively with neighboring and other states experiencing growth. The WVMA applauds the efforts of legislative leaders to review and evaluate West Virginia's tax system.

* Educational Infrastructure - Many WVMA members find that potential employees do not possess the necessary skills to fill openings in today's manufacturing environment. The WVMA supports breaking down traditional barriers to allow for new and individualized educational approaches, development of educational efficiencies in West Virginia's educational administrative system, and better integration of technology in classrooms. Further, the WVMA supports a focus on STEM education in West Virginia. Strengthening STEM education is a must in realizing the full potential of future job growth associated with shale development and downstream opportunities.

CONTACT:

RebeöXLM. Randoiph, President'".

2001 Quarrier Street, -

Charleston, WV 25311

Phone: (304) 342-2123

www.wvma.com

West Virginia Oil Marketers & Grocers Association

MISSION:

OMEGA is a West Virginia-based membership organization that advocates and promotes the business interests of the petroleum, grocery and convenience industries to better serve our r customers, employees and communities.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

Fair Competition & Border Stability - OMEGA is comprised of hometown employers and entrepreneurs contributing to our communities. We believe that advantages should not be given to large out-of-state companies or that our surrounding states should have advantages over us. We continue to seek an even playing field to conduct business. * Differences in excise tax rates across jurisdictions create incentives for consumers to cross the border : and purchase in lower tax jurisdictions. There are ^certain commodities that consumers shop price : for and among these are gasoline, cigarettes, soft : drinks and beer. It is estimated that 50 percent of : West Virginia residents live near a border, therefore being competitive on those borders is important to West Virginia retailers. We know that when consumers go across the border for these items that they make other purchases.

* Economic and Jobs Development - We need to build and sustain a competitive business environment. We need to improve West Virginia's public education system to provide accessible education, either in a college, business or trade format, so that we may produce graduates who are prepared for today's workforce.

* Responsible Government - Our state government needs to maintain prudent budgeting, integrity and transparency. We also want lawmakers to examine state laws and regulations that are more stringent than their corresponding federal rules to ensure federal parity where appropriate.

* Fiscal Responsibility - State government must maintain prudent budgeting practices and we must operate within our means.

* Legal Reform - While major steps were taken in the previous legislative session, we must continue to reform West Virginia's legal system.

In addition, OMEGA WV represents the Independent Insurance Agents of West Virginia (IIAWV), the West Virginia Trucking Association (WVTA) and the West Virginia Wholesalers Association (WVWA). The goals and objectives of these groups closely align with the business community while each having their own uniqueness on industry specific issues.

CONTACT:

Janet S. Vineyard

[email protected]

Phone: (304)415-2497

2006 Kanawha Blvd. East

Charleston WV 25311

Phone: (304)343-5500

Ryan Thorn

[email protected]

Phone: (304)904-2767

West Virginia Oil & Natural Gas Association

MISSION:

The West Virginia Oil and Natural Gas Association has represented all facets of the oil and natural gas industry for over 100 years. Our mission is to promote and advocate for the continued growth of the industry through policy development, education and outreach services. WVONGA strives to help maximize the development of the valuable and abundant oil and natural gas in our state for the betterment of West Virginia and our country.

POLICY'PRIORITIES:

West Virginia is one of only three mineral producing states in the United States that does not have a rational legal framework regarding land issues for the development of the Marcellus and Utica shales, which prevents us from reaching the industry's maximum potential and creating jobs. By creating such frameworks, the efficient and effective development of oil and gas resources can be encouraged without wasting surface and mineral resources. These modernizations are needed to bring job creation and investment in West Virginia.

To fully develop oil and natural gas in a responsible manner, oil and gas companies need to be able to gather certain information from real property. Allowing natural gas companies to gather such limited information will determine the most efficient way to maximize oil and gas development.

Approval and constructionofpipelineinfrastructure is critically important. If we can't transport the product to market, we can't fully develop it. There are a number of pipeline projects proposed to be built in and through the state. These projects represent more than $5 billion in economic impact, tens of thousands of jobs, and significant tax receipts for local government and the State. Once constructed, these lines provide the incentive and opportunity for more gas development in West Virginia, which will equate to more jobs and tax revenue.

CONTACT:

Anne Blankenship. Executive Director

PÖ Box 3231, Charleston, WV 25332

Phone: (304) 343-1609

Fax: (304) 343-5610

[email protected]

wvonga.com

West Virginia Racing Association

MISSION;

To provide a full destination resort atmosphere with amenities to serve tourists/customers coming to the properties to create a good time/fun experience.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

To provide a genuine "customer service atmosphere" that will make customers feel they are being treated on an individual basis.

CONTACT:

John Cavacini, President

P.O. Box 1088, Charleston, WV 25324-1088

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (304) 776-1000 ext. 1146

West Virginia Retailers Association

MISSION:

The West Virginia Retailers Association supports the collective goals of the retail industry, promoting the highest level of standards and best practices though education and advocacy before the general public, opinion leaders, and policy makers.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

* Economic Development - through job creation, tax reform, and improvements to our state's infrastructure. A jobs impact statement would serve as an effective guideline for legislation under consideration.

* Pharmaceutical Industry Regulation - including Medication Therapy Management as part of Patient Centered Healthcare, Medicaid and Medicare re-imbursement, substance abuse standards.

* Food Industry Regulations - WIC and SNAP benefit changes at the state level. FDA food industry regulations on behalf of chain grocery stores.

* Patent Troll Legislation - support legislation against bad faith infringement threats, with bad faith indicated by: lack of specificity of the alleged infringement, settlement demands or damage claims that include excessive licensing fees, and unreasonably short deadlines for payment of demanded monies.

* Collections & Debt - guard against unintended consequences in credit collection protection legislation.

* Fireworks Regulation - safeguard current policies and work toward the continued growth of this new retail segment

* Vapor Industry/E-Cigarette Regulations - effectively educate lawmakers on tax issues and industry standards for this product line.

West Virginia Retailers Association represents all segments of the retail industry from Main Street to the Mall. In addition, we are actively engaged on behalf of the WV Jewelers Association, WV Spirits Council, Associated Collection Agencies of WV, and (NACDS) National Association of Chain Drug Stores.

CONTACT;

Bridget Lambert, President

Office; (304) 342-1183

Email: [email protected]

West Virginia Self Insurers Association

MISSION:

Since its formation in 1985, the West Virginia Self-Insurers Association has established a mature and responsible reputation in addressing workers' compensation issues. The Association has consistently partnered with all employers throughout West Virginia, not just self- insurers, in fighting for and maintaining workers' compensation reforms. There is no issue affecting self-insured employers in which the West Virginia Self-Insurers Association is not involved.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

The WVSIA organization provides its members -

* A voice within the commission and with legislators on workers' compensation issues

* Historical knowledge on workers' compensation issues

* Education and training through meetings and our annual conference

* Communication about current issues dealing with workers' compensation

* Networking and collaboration among our members

While we originally were established to serve selfinsured employers, we have expanded our scope to include all workers' compensation issues and especially, high deductible programs whose interests closely align with self-insured issues.

CONTACT:

Henry Bowen

Post Office Box 1573

Charleston, West Virginia 25326

Phone: (304) 720-5032

Email: [email protected]

West Virginia Society of CPAs

MISSION:

The mission statement of the Society is to unite, safeguard and promote the accounting profession in the State of West Virginia as constituted by Certified Public Accountants; to cultivate and maintain high professional competency levels and ethical standards within the accounting profession; and to support accountancy education.

POLICY PRIORITIES:

CPAs are the trusted professionals who enable people and organizations to shape their future. Combining insight with integrity, CPAs deliver value by:

* Communicating the total picture with clarity and objectivity;

* Translating complex information into critical knowledge;

* Anticipating and creating opportunities, and

* Designing pathways that transform vision into reality.

* Core purpose: CPAs... Making sense of a changing and complex world.

CONTACT:

Judy A. Proctor, CPA, CEO

900 Lee St. East, Suite 1201

Charleston, WV 25301

Phone: (304) 342-5461

Toll-free: (800) 352-3855 (WV & OH only)

Fax: (304) 344-4636

Email: [email protected]