Name Paul Howe
Office Sought WV House of Delegates
Party Affiliation Republican
District 70
City/Town Clarksburg
The US Supreme Court will decide Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization this summer, which some have speculated may overturn Roe v. Wade. If there were no Constitutional protections for abortion, what do you think West Virginia's abortion policies should be?
WV state government should have a policy of non intervention with respect to personal health choices.
Several West Virginia municipalities have passed ordinances that expand the definition of racial discrimination to include discriminating against traditional or natural hair textures and styles. Would you support expanding this protection statewide? Why or why not?
No. Let local governments govern. The state should not get involved with private contracts between consenting adults.
Many states have created laws that seek to limit the teaching of "divisive concepts" or "critical race theory". West Virginia narrowly missed passing a similar law during the 2022 Legislative Session. What is the value or harm in teaching these topics and what role should the legislature play in determining this curriculum?
Harm is in the eye of the beholder. I believe our local county school boards should decide the curriculum based on their counties needs. Not the state’s politically appointed school board that has zero accountability to the stake holders, the parents.
Currently there is no statewide law protecting people in matters of employment, housing, and public accommodations based on their sexuality or gender identity. Proponents claim these protections are necessary for ongoing discrimination by the LGBTQ community. Opponents claim that such protections infringe upon religious beliefs. What do you believe and would you support or oppose a statewide law?
This is a politically charged question that needs some background (which I will Not get into here). No law is needed at the state level as there are federal laws that prohibit such discrimination. Of course, it is reprehensible to discriminate based on religion, race or gender. It’s just as reprehensible to believe the government should intervene in contractual agreements between willing adults. In my view, the state must treat all people the same. To accomplish this, the state shall not discern and create categories of humans with special rights.
Recently a revival was held at schools in Cabell and Wayne counties. The Legislature has, in recent years, passed laws to allow teaching the Bible in public schools and allowing for religious drug-prevention programs to operate in schools. What do you think the role of religion in public schools should be and why?
It’s a public building. Again, if the local public (county school boards) want to allow/ fill the need for the public, then I see no problem with it. Again, local government works best.
The West Virginia Senate recently unanimously adopted a resolution stating that West Virginia is prepared to welcome Ukrainian refugees. Critics have pointed out that the Legislature has recently considered legislation what would make things more difficult for refugees and immigrants to settle in West Virginia. Should West Virginia welcome refugees and immigrants? If no, why not? If yes, what can the state do to support these communities?
No, The state of WV has no business in “ welcoming “ refugees. That's a State Department issue. What does “ welcoming refugees “ mean?
There is increasing tension with communities of people who are unhoused or face housing insecurity. Police breakups of encampments are common, and municipalities have shown growing opposition to low-barrier housing and recovery housing. How would you address community concerns while protecting the rights of unhoused people?
While I was growing up, Churchs took care of the homeless in our communities. Today, things are much different. Local communities need to be able to shut down the “non profits” organizations who make money off of bringing the homeless into WV. Many as far away as Illinois, Colorado, and California. “Homeless.... and they ain’t from WV “ - every person in WV who has been watching the busses of homeless being brought into our state. “It’s an invasion”, some have said in Clarksburg. This needs adddressed in a humane way.
Police violence has been in the forefront of national headlines for several years. Some propose more civilian oversight of law enforcement through civilian review boards that could review incidents and policies. Others view these boards as "anti-police" and point out that civilians are ill-equipped to understand the nature of police work. Do you support the use of civilian review boards? What other steps, if any, should the state take to provide transparency and accountability for police?
Yes, civilian review would be a good thing.
Jails in West Virginia are above capacity and are bankrupting some counties. Prisons are understaffed, making them dangerous for residents and staff alike. What steps, if any, should West Virginia take to address these issues?
Reduce jailable offensives.
Currently, people who are incarcerated or on probation and parole for a felony conviction are unable to vote. The West Virginia Senate Judiciary Committee passed a bill that would have expanded that right to people who are on probation and parole. When, if ever do you think people should lose their right to vote? When, if ever should that right be restored?
Your right to vote should never be revoked. Maybe suspension while serving time in prison. But after your ‘debt is paid’ you should enjoy the full appreciation of our rights