On this episode of The Legislature Today, News Director Eric Douglas speaks with West Virginia Senate President Randy Smith, R-Preston. Smith was elected to be the Senate President for the 87th legislature that started this year.

Against the backdrop of legislative action Tuesday, much of the state is reeling from massive flooding over the President's Day weekend. Gov. Patrick Morrisey confirmed the flood-related deaths of two people in McDowell County. He has sent a letter to President Donald Trump requesting disaster assistance for 13 West Virginia counties.

In the Senate, a bill that would allow for broader vaccine exemptions for schools hit that second reading stage. Briana Heaney has more.

On the House floor, delegates adopted a resolution rejecting the redesignation of part of a Potomac River tributary.

And some of the first bills discussed in the Senate Education Committee this year are trying to address the ongoing issue of staffing in West Virginia’s schools. Chris Schulz has more.

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https://www.youtube.com/live/cWUN_R0XAL8

The Legislature Today is West Virginia’s only television/radio simulcast devoted to covering the state’s 60-day regular legislative session.

Watch or listen to new episodes Monday through Friday at 6 p.m. on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.