MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Two Monongalia County lawmakers plan to propose changes to the state Division of Highways funding formula during this year’s legislative session, as the lawmakers argue the current system fails to recognize growth and increased traffic.
“The formula would take into account road miles in a district, it also takes into account truck miles in a district to more intelligently appropriate those funds,” Democratic Delegate John Williams explained.
Williams proposed a change two years ago, but Gov. Jim Justice rejected the alterations. Republican colleague Joe Statler has joined Williams in this year’s effort.
Statler served in the House of Delegates in 2015 when lawmakers reviewed an audit of the allocation plan.
“One of the weaknesses the audit showed was that there was no rhyme or reason to how the money is distributed across the state,” he said. “I will tell you the DOH adamantly defended that, saying that they use a formula. I don’t believe if it’s being used that it’s being used correctly.”
Statler argued the formula should be a process rather than an annual allocation.
“The DOH needs to put more emphasis on the formula and start putting more money into counties that have higher traffic use,” he added.
Williams noted some possible concerns from legislators because of the prior veto, but Statler said he wants to build a coalition of lawmakers to send a message to the governor about the need for a change.
“You have to do a lot of hall lobbying, go down through and talk to members from other areas, and let them know what you need to build a strong coalition,” he said. “It doesn’t matter what side of the aisle you’re on.”
This year’s regular legislative session begins Feb. 10.