New Ohio County State Senator Robert “Rocky” J. Fitzsimmons is honored by his recent appointment and believes his background will serve him well in his new position.
“With my legal experience, eight years of practicing law and my engineering background I think I bring a unique perspective and some unique abilities to solve legislative problems here in West Virginia,” said Fitzsimmons.
Fitzsimmons was appointed by Governor Earl Ray Tomblin Wednesday to fill the vacant seat left behind by the resignation of Senator Orphy Klempa earlier this month.
He will be representing the First Senatorial District comprised of Brooke, Hancock, and Ohio counties as well as part of Marshall County.
Fitzsimmons said this appointment had a lot to do with timing.
“It was the right time in my life to seek public office and fortunately I work with an organization with a lot of great people and their ability to help me cover my case load and scheduling made it all possible for me to do this,” said Fitzsimmons.
Fitzsimmons practiced law with Fitzsimmons Law Firm PLLC in Wheeling. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Washington University and a Juris Doctorate from Wake Forest University.
Fitzsimmons said education, particularly surrounding the audit, and the continued responsible development of the states oil and gas industry will be two of the most important issues that will be addressed in the next legislative session.
He also believes school safety will be addressed in light of the recent Newtown, Connecticut shooting.
Fitzsimmons said in order to see growth in West Virginia, legislatures must see to it that the tremendous amounts of resources currently in the state are used to sustain current businesses in the state and create more jobs for West Virginians.
Fitzsimmons will be serving the remainder of Klempa’s term and his appointment is effective immediately.