Economy

West Virginia’s economy has been held back for too long by neglect, corruption, and the outsized influence of big money in politics. Good-paying jobs have disappeared, and far too many young people are being forced to leave the state just to find opportunity.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

Mark is committed to rebuilding West Virginia’s economy by creating an environment where small and medium-sized businesses can thrive—without selling out our people or our natural resources. He will fight to strengthen labor unions, expand workforce training, and open the door to the jobs of tomorrow.

Mark believes in a future where West Virginians can build their lives right here at home—a future where young people no longer feel they have to leave to succeed, but choose to stay because they see a community worth investing in.

  1. Raise the minimum wage up to $12.00 per hour
    This is the same buying power as $8.75 was in 2016 when we last raised the minimum wage. Tie the minimum wage with the inflation rate annually.

  2. Increase the tipped base pay. to $3.60 per hour
    This is the same buying power as 2.62 was in 2016. This base wage should also adjust annually for inflation.

  3. Small business tax deductions
    Through expanded tax deductions, easing the burden on local entrepreneurs who form the backbone of our communities.

  4. Establish a first time home buyer or building grant of $25,000
    To help West Virginians buy or build homes, supporting both construction jobs and long-term stability.

  5. Grants to build greenhouses & farms
    Promoting local food production and sustainable agriculture.

  6. Provide grants and incentives for home electricity generation
    including rebates for equipment and compensation for selling excess power back to the grid.

  7. Create tax credits for water recycling and renewable energy generation
    For manufacturing and data center sites, encouraging environmental responsibility and innovation.

  8. Raise the Corporate income tax rate
    from 6.5% to 7.5% for businesses with net profits exceeding $3 million, ensuring large companies pay their fair share. (5M of profit would only pay 20k more in taxes.)

  9. Adjust individual income tax brackets annually for inflation
    To prevent bracket creep and protect working families from unintentional tax increases.

Do you want these values from your delegate, but you do not live in the wonderful 47th precinct of WV? Click on the letter draft below and find your state delegate and senator at this website below. Write to their office with a letter or email. Make your voice heard

https://www.wvlegislature.gov/House/roster.cfm

Letter Draft