SENATE RESOLUTION 18

(By Senators Prezioso, Sypolt, Palumbo, Plymale, Beach, Stollings, Unger, Takubo, Jeffries, Swope, and Baldwin)

[Introduced January 23, 2019]

Recognizing the 20th anniversary of the James “Tiger” Morton Catastrophic Illness Fund.

Whereas, James “Tiger” Morton had an illustrious career as a minister, teacher, coach, principal, special assistant for the Governor’s Office, and legislative liaison and ombudsman for what is now the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources; and

Whereas, James “Tiger” Morton created lasting relationships with, and earned respect from, governors and legislators, received many distinguished service awards, had a deep interest in children’s well-being, and helped West Virginians in need by arranging for medical transplants, assisting with applications for benefits, and everything in between; and

Whereas, His selfless devotion and compassion resulted in the creation of the James “Tiger” Morton Catastrophic Illness Fund in 1999 during the 74th regular session of the West Virginia Legislature; and

Whereas, James “Tiger” Morton’s contributions were so valued that his body was laid in state in the Capitol upon his passing; and

Whereas, The James “Tiger” Morton Catastrophic Illness Commission perpetuates his valuable legacy by providing a source of economic assistance outside the scope of existing public programs to West Virginians facing catastrophic illness and saving many lives; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby recognizes the 20th anniversary of the James “Tiger” Morton Catastrophic Illness Fund; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the appropriate representatives of the James “Tiger” Morton Catastrophic Illness Fund.