FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, February 17, 2024
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West Virginia Week in Review
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Gov. Justice issues statement on closing of Cleveland-Cliffs Weirton facility
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Gov. Justice issued the following statement following the news that Cleveland-Cliffs is closing their Weirton facility:
“The news of Cleveland-Cliffs closing their Weirton operation hits me like a ton of bricks. Nearly 900 West Virginia jobs are lost; it's a gut punch to families, to the community and to our state's very spirit.
And it’s all because of an unwise, irresponsible decision by the United States International Trade Commission. This commission has only four members, three of which were appointed by President Barack Obama. Their decision denied proposed import tariffs on tin mill products from China, Canada, and Germany that the U.S. Department of Commerce determined are sold in the United States at less than fair value and directly subsidized by the government of China.
Their decision effectively allows cheap steel to continue flooding into our country, which forced Cleveland-Cliffs to close their facility and will further decimate America’s steel industry in the days and weeks to come.
These four unelected bureaucrats should not have the power to unilaterally dismantle an American industry with no oversight. I’m calling on our President and Congress to reign in this commission and not idly stand by while American workers and communities suffer.
President Trump’s tariffs on steel imports worked because they put America first. They protected America’s steel industry and prevented a disastrous decision like this from occurring. It was shortsighted and foolish for President Biden to reverse them in the name of politics.
To all those in the Weirton community, here's what I am doing:
Immediately deploy an Economic Development Task Force: This team will hit the ground running to identify and attract businesses seeking incredible facilities like this one, leveraging every incentive within our power. I am directing this team to continue working with the company as well to explore any and all options available in this unacceptable situation.
Immediately deploy a Workforce WV Quick Response Team: This team, with experts in job training and relocation assistance will hit the ground running to connect affected workers with new opportunities. This team will provide personalized training and certification programs to equip workers with the latest skills, ensuring they are competitive in any industry. No one will be left behind; we'll tailor support based on your individual needs and goals.
West Virginians are known for their grit and resilience. We've overcome challenges before, and we'll overcome this one too. Together, we'll ensure Weirton emerges stronger, with a brighter future for all.”
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Gov. Justice announces construction to begin on state’s first Elk Visitor Center
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State-of-the-art facility will enhance elk management and promote wildlife tourism in West Virginia
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Gov. Justice announced that the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) has awarded a $6.7 million contract to the March-Westin Company, Inc. of Morgantown to construct a new Tomblin Wildlife Management Area Visitor Center and Elk Viewing Platform in Logan County.
Construction on the new facility will begin this spring with an anticipated opening in 2025. This state-of-the-art facility is expected to draw in thousands of new visitors who will witness the majesty of the elk herd while contributing significantly to the local economy and supporting ongoing elk management efforts.
"I'm excited to announce that this project is getting started because it will allow even more people to experience the awe-inspiring sight of our elk herd,” Gov. Justice said. “West Virginians have embraced these majestic creatures, and this new facility will ensure their continued success while boosting tourism and economic development in Logan County.”
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Gov. Justice appoints Ann Urling as Interim Inspector General for Departments of Health, Human Services, and Health Facilities
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Gov. Justice announced the appointment of Ann Urling as the Interim Inspector General for the Departments of Health, Human Services, and Health Facilities.
Urling, the Governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff, is a dedicated public servant with extensive experience in government operations and accountability. She will be responsible for leading the independent oversight of programs within the three agencies, ensuring they operate efficiently and effectively while safeguarding public funds.
"Ann has been a trusted advisor to me for years now and has helped my administration in countless ways," Gov. Justice said. "Her unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and efficiency in government makes her the perfect choice to lead the Office of Inspector General. I have no doubt she will tirelessly work to ensure that West Virginia taxpayers' dollars are used wisely."
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Gov. Justice announces Babydog has successful ACL surgery
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Gov. Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice are happy to announce that their cherished English Bulldog, Babydog, has successfully undergone ACL surgery.
“While it was really tough, Babydog has always been tough, too,” Gov. Justice said. “Babydog says ‘One ACL surgery down and one more to go!’ We are immensely grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers we have received. Cathy and I ask for continued thoughts and prayers for Babydog going forward.”
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The surgery was performed by Dr. Otto I. Lanz, DVM, DACVS, at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine's Veterinary Teaching Hospital.
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