March 25, 2020

Manchin Hears From West Virginia Counties, Municipal Leagues, County Commissioners, Sheriffs, And Economic Development Council Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) participated in separate calls with West Virginia Counties, County Commissioners, Municipal Leagues, Sheriffs, and the Economic Development Council to hear their concerns about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“Today I heard from our county and local officials who are doing everything they can to support their communities during this time of uncertainty. They are working around the clock to support those on the front lines like the healthcare workers and first responders in their communities and all of the West Virginians who are worried about their jobs, their family and their loved ones. I will continue to do everything I can to ensure that our healthcare professionals, small businesses, and all West Virginians are supported during this pandemic,” said Senator Manchin.

“Counties are on the front lines in this health crisis, along with the cities, and we hear the needs of the people before anyone else,” said Jonathan Adler, Executive Director of the West Virginia Association of Counties. “We are so thankful for the leadership Senator Manchin always provides, especially in crisis situations. He’s working for everyone’s benefit and we appreciate his speaking with us today about our needs and helping us solve our problems.”

“West Virginia County Commissioners are grateful for the leadership Senator Manchin has shown during this period. His dedication to our concerns and our services we provide will help commissioners in all 55 counties provide guidance to the citizens of West Virginia. Senator Manchin understands how imperative this stimulus funding is to county government in terms of economic recovery and perseverance in West Virginia,” said Jennifer Piercy, Executive Director of the West Virginia County Commissioners.  

“The West Virginia Municipal League can’t thank Senator Manchin enough for hosting this conference call with Cities, Towns and Villages across the State. The stimulus package being acted on is essential to the hospitals, businesses and local governments affected by this pandemic. We’re pleased that communities can continue their vital work knowing they have a strong federal partner,” said Travis L. Blosser, Executive Director of the West Virginia Municipal League.

“Our first responders like our Sheriffs are bravely serving their fellow West Virginians on the front lines of this pandemic and badly need personal protective equipment (PPEs) to make sure they are safe during this time. We appreciate Senator Manchin’s efforts to get more PPEs for our first responders and his leadership during this time of uncertainty for our country and our state,” said Rodney Miller, Executive Director of the West Virginia Sheriffs’ Association.

“We appreciate Senator Manchin reaching out to us to listen to the concerns economic development professionals are hearing from local businesses, large and small, and provide us with information on ways we can help them get through this crisis. During this time, we need assistance to ensure our businesses are supported and can continue to contribute to their community and West Virginia. Senator Manchin is fighting for West Virginia businesses and we truly appreciate his hard work,” said Robbie Morris, President of the West Virginia Economic Development Council.

Senator Manchin has participated in calls with the West Virginia Manufacturers Association, the West Virginia American Federation of Teachers, the West Virginia Hospital Association, the West Virginia Medical Association, the West Virginia Primary Care Association, the West Virginia Nursing Association, the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce, and the West Virginia Directors for Senior and Community Services. In the coming days, he will continue to schedule opportunities to hear directly from West Virginians about how the ongoing pandemic is impacting their lives, businesses and communities.

Senator Manchin launched an information resources page where West Virginians can learn more about the coronavirus outbreak and how to protect themselves and their families. To learn more please click here. 

To receive daily updates from Senator Manchin on the coronavirus outbreak, please click here.