HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 88

(By Mr. Speaker, Mr. Kiss, and Delegates Campbell,

Mezzatesta, Michael, Varner, Beane, Staton, Amores

and Canterbury)


[Introduced March 6, 2003; referred

to the Committee on Rules.]


Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance to conduct a study to examine how the Legislature might operate more efficiently and effectively in representing the citizens by examining other state models and making recommendations as to ways to use computer and communication technology and other means to accomplish this.

W HEREAS , The legislative process is constantly evolving, and, hopefully improving; and
W HEREAS , As Legislators, we need to manage this and direct change to the extent possible for the good of the citizens of this great state; and
W HEREAS , Utilizing technological advances and common sense is one way we can accomplish this; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study ways and methods to make the Legislature more effective, including, but not limited to earlier deadlines for bill introduction and bill passage, split sessions, the scheduling of the regular session at a time other than winter, when travel may be difficult, biennial budgets, video conferencing using existing state technologies to save on travel costs, rules regarding legislative receptions, the observation of state holidays during legislative sessions and to consider a constitutional change to allow the Legislature to convene in a place other than Charleston in the event of an emergency; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2004, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.