The West Virginia Senate and House came together quickly in a
special session to pass bills that deal with several issues including a budget
shortfall.
The special session Friday was ordered by Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin.
Nine bills passed that include those that manage gas well
drilling waste, create a statewide system for sexual assault nurses, and
address local school funding.
All the bills will be sent to the governor for final approval.
A bill known as the "haircut bill" aims to funnel $21
million from lottery revenues into the state's reserve fund to decrease the
amount needed to balance the 2015 budget.
It cuts infrastructure, thoroughbred development, greyhound
racing, and the racetrack modernization fund.
The bill pass overwhelmingly, though delegates and senators from
major racing industry areas voted against the measure.
