Senate President-elect Randy Smith, R-Preston, today announced the selection of Senator Jason Barrett, R-Berkeley, as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee for the 87th Legislature, which begins on January 8, 2025.
Senator Rollan Roberts, R-Raleigh, will serve as Vice Chairman. Senate President-Elect Smith noted that his background and expertise will help provide a full perspective on the management of West Virginia’s budgeting and finance needs.
“The Finance Committee does some of the hardest work and heaviest lifting in the Legislature, and it’s a tough job,” Senator Smith said. “I knew I wanted a fresh set of eyes and a strong ability to work with all of our state agencies to take a hard look at our state’s revenues and expenses, and I am confident in Senator Barrett’s ability to take on this task.”
Senate President-elect Smith said that Senator Barrett’s experience as a job creator and small business owner and manager gives him the kind of experience he needs to ensure our state’s budget and finances maintain their health.
“As a person who signs the front of a paycheck, Senator Barrett knows that budgeting and operating within your means isn’t an option,” Senator Smith said. “As a person who is deeply involved in his community, he’s also aware of the critical needs our state has, especially when it comes to infrastructure. He will be able to bring both of these skill sets to the table and ensure West Virginia’s tax dollars are spent wisely and responsibly.”
Senate President-elect Smith also said he looks forward to Senator Barrett continuing the work that outgoing Senate Finance Committee Chairman Eric Tarr, R-Putnam, has done during his service as Chairman.
“Senator Tarr did an outstanding job as our Finance Committee Chairman, and because of his vision, planning, and execution, we were able to secure record-breaking surpluses and provide historic personal income tax cuts to our citizens,” Senator Smith said. “I am grateful to him for his service and thank him for his leadership.”
