James C. Justice

Senator Justice Visits Bluefield State University in Support of the HBCU Arts Act and IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act

Position: Senator Justice supports the HBCU Arts Act and IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act as investments in historically Black colleges and universities to expand educational opportunities and workforce development.

BLUEFIELD, WV – Today, Senator Jim Justice visited Bluefield State University to meet with students and deliver remarks on the HBCU Arts Act and the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act. “HBCUs have been educating leaders, opening doors, and creating opportunities for generations. Bluefield State has already shown it can turn federal investment into results. IGNITE gives us a way to do more of that, faster. Along with the HBCU Arts Act, we are doing everything in our power to make sure students at HBCUs have the tools they need to succeed. Building up West Virginia's HBCUs isn't a partisan issue — it's an investment in our workforce and our future,” said Senator Jim Justice. “The HBCU Arts Act and the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act are meaningful investments in our students, our campus and our community. As Senator Justice said, the arts are our soul, and this legislation would help Bluefield State preserve that soul while expanding opportunity. We are grateful for his longstanding advocacy for Bluefield State and America’s HBCUs,” said Keith Olson, Director of Communications, Bluefield State University.

Senator Justice Joins First Settlement Physical Therapy to Highlight SAFE Act

Position: Senator Justice advocates for his SAFE Act, which aims to prevent falls and addiction among elderly Americans through physical therapy and related interventions, emphasizing the importance of keeping seniors active and independent.

TRIADELPHIA, WV – Today, Senator Jim Justice joined First Settlement Physical Therapy and Wheeling University Doctor of Physical Therapy students to highlight his Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly (SAFE) Act. “It’s great to be back with the team at First Settlement Physical Therapy to talk about my SAFE Act. We know how much our seniors value staying active, but one fall can take all of that away in a heartbeat. That’s why this bill matters so much. I want to thank the incredible therapists across our state, along with the future DPT students here today, for the work you do every day to give our seniors the care and support they need to stay safe, healthy, and independent,” said Senator Jim Justice.

Senators Justice, Capito Introduce Bill to Streamline Enrollment in Trump Account

Position: Senators Justice and Capito support streamlining enrollment in Trump Accounts for newborns by amending the Social Security Administration's Enumeration at Birth program to automatically establish accounts at hospital birth registration, characterizing the measure as reducing administrative burden and expanding access to the $1,000 per-child program.

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senators Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) introduced legislation that would provide families with enrollment information to establish Trump Accounts for eligible newborns while still at the hospital. Specifically, the bill would amend the Social Security Administration's (SSA) Enumeration at Birth (EAB) program to provide for the creation of a Trump Account when a child's birth is registered, streamlining enrollment and increasing access the program. “I've always believed that when we invest in our kids, we're investing in the future of this great country. The Trump Accounts do just that by giving eligible children a $1,000 head start. That's the kind of common-sense idea that helps hardworking families and gives the next generation a better chance to chase their dreams,” said Senator Jim Justice. “Trump accounts are an innovative way to provide financial backing for all American newborns, and this legislation makes it easier for West Virginia families to access that opportunity. By providing for the establishment of Trump Accounts through the Social Security Administration's existing birth registration process, we are cutting red tape and ensuring our children can benefit from this program from day one. I'm proud to work to streamline enrollment and help more families invest in their children's futures,” said Senator Shelley Moore Capito.

Senator Justice Celebrates New Dominion Energy Natural Gas Plant at Mt. Storm

Position: Senator Justice supports natural gas infrastructure development as part of an energy-focused economic strategy for West Virginia, emphasizing job creation and grid reliability.

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senator Jim Justice celebrated Dominion Energy’s announcement of their plan to construct a new natural gas power plant at Mt. Storm that will run alongside the existing coal plant. “I’ve been saying it since the beginning: energy is the lifeblood of West Virginia. Dominion Energy’s investment in a state-of-the-art natural gas plant cements our position as America's energy leader. Under the Trump administration’s America First energy vision, we aren't just participating in the national energy renaissance—we're driving it. This project brings thousands of high-paying jobs and bolsters our grid with reliable, affordable power. We are proving once again that when America needs power, West Virginia delivers,"said Senator Jim Justice. This historic investment will:

Senator Justice Joins Morgantown Firefighters in Support of No Tax on Overtime for All Workers Act

Position: Senator Justice supports the No Tax on Overtime for All Workers Act, which would exempt overtime compensation from federal income taxation for workers including firefighters, first responders, and other occupations.

MORGANTOWN, WV – Today, Senator Jim Justice joined Morgantown firefighters and Professional Fire Fighters of West Virginia (PFFWV) officials at Northside Fire Station to discuss his bill, the No Tax on Overtime for All Workers Act. “These firefighters are a big reason why I introduced the No Tax on Overtime for All Workers Act. If you work more, you ought to take home more – it really is as simple as that. These folks answer the call at all hours of the day and night to help out West Virginians in need, and they should not be taxed for that sacrifice. This bill makes sure hardworking Americans like firefighters, first responders, airline workers, rail workers, truck drivers, tradesmen and women aren’t penalized for putting in extra hours and working harder. I’ll keep fighting with everything I’ve got to stand up for them and get this passed into law,” said Senator Jim Justice. “Senator Justice has always been a loyal supporter of professional firefighters and now he is standing firm on that support by sponsoring Senate Bill 4310 "No Tax on Overtime for All Workers Act". Senator Justice realizes the positive impact this will have on the paychecks and living wages of professional firefighters. Thank you Senator Justice for having the back of blue-collar working class West Virginians and the Professional Fire Fighters of West Virginia,” said Jayson Nicewarner, Professional Fire Fighters of WV, Secretary/Treasurer.

Senators Justice, Capito Celebrate Senate Passage of NPS-CBP Land Swap at Harpers Ferry

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) released the following statements after the Senate unanimously passed the National Park Service (NPS) – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) land swap at Harpers Ferry National Historic Park in West Virginia. "This is a major win for West Virginia and a perfect example of common sense in action. By bringing this historic land into the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, we are ensuring that our state’s incredible heritage is preserved. At the same time, providing the CBP Advanced Training Center with the space they need to grow ensures that the brave men and women who protect our borders have the best possible facilities. I am proud to see the Senate act unanimously to support our National Parks and our national security in one fell swoop,” said Senator Jim Justice. “The passage of this bill is welcome news as it will benefit not only West Virginia, but our nation’s security as well. By allowing the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Advanced Training Center in Harpers Ferry to expand, we are ensuring our hardworking Border Patrol agents and federal law enforcement officers have access to the world-class training facilities they need to do their jobs safely and effectively and continues my long-standing support for this world class facility. I’m also glad this land swap will allow us to preserve a historic battlefield, honoring the rich heritage of our state,” said Senator Shelley Moore Capito.

Senators Justice, Capito Applaud USDA Research Projects Relocating to West Virginia

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) released the following statements after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced its Research, Education, and Economics (REE) Mission Area reorganization and restructuring, which includes agricultural research investments in West Virginia. “Getting USDA research and resources closer to our farmers makes all the sense in the world. I’ve been in Washington for over a year now, and I’ve gotten to see a lot of things, but one thing I haven’t seen is a farm. If we really want to help our farmers, we’ve got to get out of Washington and get closer to where the real work is happening. Bringing these resources, research, and leadership into West Virginia means we can deliver for our producers and keep driving our state forward to expand our agricultural footprint,” said Senator Jim Justice. “This reorganization by USDA will benefit our West Virginia farmers and producers. I am glad to see this move happening, which will better align research with the communities it serves by placing more resources and leadership closer to the field. With opportunities to expand work in communities like Kearneysville, Leetown, and Martinsburg, USDA is ensuring that West Virginia can play a bigger role in agricultural innovation,” said Senator Shelley Moore Capito.

WTAS: Senator Justice’s Bipartisan Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act

Position: Senator Justice supports the Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act, which would amend SNAP rules to allow beneficiaries to purchase hot prepared rotisserie chicken, addressing food access and supporting rural grocery stores and poultry producers.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Senators Jim Justice, John Fetterman (D-PA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and Michael Bennet (D-CO) introduced the Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act. The Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act amends the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to modify the definition of food by adding “hot rotisserie chicken.”Current statute does not allow the purchase of hot prepared foods under SNAP, but does allow the purchase of cooked rotisserie chicken that has been cooled down. Here’s what they are saying (WTAS): "The West Virginia Food and Farm Coalition supports the Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act because it addresses real challenges facing our rural communities. For small-town grocery stores operating on thin margins, deli sales are essential to keeping their doors open and serving as a lifeline for the communities around them. This legislation also opens the door for seniors and working families to access a warm, affordable, and nutritious meal. This commonsense bill supports West Virginia's farmers and the rural grocery stores that connect them to their neighbors," said Spencer Moss, Executive Director, West Virginia Food and Farm Coalition. “We are grateful to Senators Justice, Capito, Bennet, and Fetterman for their introduction of the Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act, which will support our facility in Moorefield, West Virginia, and poultry growers in the region,” said the West Virginia Poultry Association. “Rotisserie chicken is one of the most affordable, nutritious, and protein-packed foods in the grocery store. We appreciate Sen. Justice, Rep. Crawford, and their bipartisan colleagues for advancing a practical, common-sense solution that helps families put nutritious meals on the table,” said Blake Rollins, President of The Poultry Federation. “Pilgrim’s applauds the bipartisan introduction of the HOT Rotisserie Chicken Act, which removes an outdated rule preventing SNAP recipients from purchasing hot rotisserie chicken. We appreciate the leadership of Senators Justice, Capito, Fetterman, and Bennet, as well as Rep. Crawford, for their efforts to expand access to this convenient, nutritious, and affordable meal option. This legislation supports our poultry processing facilities and creates additional opportunities for our grower partners,” said Pilgrims. “The Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act kills two birds with one stone: affordability and nutrition. It is a commonsense solution to an unnecessary problem that does not increase SNAP funding nor participant eligibility. I want to thank Sens. Justice, Bennet, Fetterman, and Capito, and Rep. Crawford for their leadership on this no-cost, commonsense, and long-overdue legislation. The National Chicken Council is proud to support it, and we urge Congress to pass it without delay,” said Harrison Kircher, National Chicken Council President. “Everyone deserves access to great-tasting, nutritious, affordable, and convenient protein. This bipartisan legislation expands flexibility in SNAP, improving access to hot, ready-to-eat rotisserie chicken, and we are thankful to the members for advancing this common-sense approach,” said a Spokesperson from Tyson Foods. “A hot rotisserie chicken is an affordable, accessible, and nutritious, real food that should be allowed to be purchased in the SNAP program. The Meat Institute and its members agree that this commonsense bill will help provide nutritious animal protein to families struggling to make ends meet,” said the Meat Institute.

Senators Justice, Fetterman, Capito, and Bennet Introduce the Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act

Position: The senators support modifying SNAP regulations to allow participants to purchase hot rotisserie chicken, arguing this change addresses an unnecessary restriction, improves convenience and nutrition access for low-income families, and aligns the program with practical real-world needs.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, Senators Jim Justice, John Fetterman (D-PA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and Michael Bennet (D-CO) introduced the Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act to allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants to purchase hot rotisserie chicken with their benefits. “Allowing folks on SNAP to buy hot rotisserie chickens is truly just common sense. It’s as basic as you can get to help busy parents or grandparents put something as simple as this on the table to feed their families. We have to give people the option to put a healthy, protein-dense choice on the table that actually tastes good and doesn’t take an hour and a half to cook,” said Senator Jim Justice. “America’s best (and delicious) affordability play is Costco’s $4.99 rotisserie chicken 😜. It’s one of my family’s favorites and I’m proud to join this bill with Senator Justice for all to try. SNAP funds would be well spent to feed our nation’s families who need it,” said Senator John Fetterman. “Allowing SNAP recipients to purchase hot rotisserie chicken is a simple, practical step to make the program work better for the people it serves. For seniors, working families, and those without reliable access to cooking equipment, this is about convenience and dignity. With multiple states—including West Virginia—already requesting flexibility in this area, this bill brings SNAP in line with real-world needs while making smart, efficient use of taxpayer dollars,” said Senator Shelley Moore Capito. “Congress should be making it easier, not harder, for families to put food on the table. This bill fixes an unnecessary barrier and helps Colorado families get a quick, nutritious meal when they need it,” said Senator Michael Bennet. “The Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act is a commonsense solution to an unnecessary problem. Right now, a SNAP family can buy a cold rotisserie chicken — but the moment it's hot, it's off limits. There is no nutritional difference. There is no logical difference. There is only an outdated technicality that forces grocery stores to heat chickens and cool them back down just to comply, wasting energy, degrading quality, and adding cost. Rotisserie chicken – a real food – is the most affordable complete protein in the grocery store. At around $7, it can feed an entire family. For the 42 million Americans on SNAP, that matters enormously. I want to thank Rep. Crawford, and Sens. Justice, Bennett, Fetterman, and Capito for their leadership on this no-cost, commonsense, and long overdue legislation. The National Chicken Council is proud to support it, and we urge Congress to pass it without delay," said NCC President Harrison Kircher.

Senator Justice Introduces the De-escalation Drone Pilot Program Act of 2026

Position: Senator Justice supports establishing a federal pilot program to authorize law enforcement agencies to use drones equipped with non-lethal devices for de-escalation in high-risk scenarios such as active shooter or hostage situations.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, Senator Jim Justice introduced the De-escalation Drone Pilot Program Act of 2026 to establish a drone pilot program within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to review the potential use of drones equipped with non-lethal devices for local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies responding to scenarios that present significant risk to human life—e.g., an active shooter or hostage event. “Our officers are asked to put their lives on the line everyday they go to work. This bill is commonsense and would help out our law enforcement when they respond to some of the most extreme threats. Drones would protect them without ever needing to use deadly force or put themselves directly in the line of fire. We should do everything in our power to protect those that protect us,” said Senator Jim Justice. · De-escalation drones are a vital tool law enforcement could use to respond to active threats while protecting not only the lives of officers responding to the scene, but also captives, uninvolved individuals, and even the suspected criminal. · The De-escalation Drone Pilot Program Act of 2026 would narrowly define “non-lethal de-escalation unmanned aircraft” to include only unmanned aircraft equipped with one or more non-lethal weapons, such as a taser. · The bill would also require the FAA to create a streamlined approval process for SWAT teams to request FAA authorization to operate and deploy these needed devices. ·  U.S. Representatives Troy Nehls (R-TX) and Don Davis (D-NC) introduced the companion legislation in the House of Representatives. · The devices used in the pilot program established by this legislation would be required to be made in the United States.