Name Ally Layman
Office Sought WV House of Delegates
Party Affiliation Democrat
District 24
City/Town Huntington
Campaign Website https://allyforwv.com/
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?
As a domestic violence advocate, and a female, I will fully support a women's right to choose. As a state we should insure safe affordable health care for all West Virginia's. I would advocate for abortion rights for women in West Virginia.
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?
Yes, I believe the Crown Act should be passed state wide, and nationally. As an ally I would advocate that this be passed into state law.
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?
I would advocate that everyone has the right to hear about their history and background. There is no harm in this education. Has someone who is apart of the LGBTQ Community I would love to see more diverse education in schools.
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?
It is past time for the Fairness Act to be passed. As I have said I am apart of the LGBTQ Community, I would advocate for this to pass into state law, and nationally.
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?
I do not believe that religion has a place in public school. I would advocate against this as a legislature.
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?
There is value in diversity. West Virginia should be a welcoming state. We our loosing our population, and we should welcome everyone to our table. I would advocate to ensure everyone has a seat at the table.
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?
As a rapid rehousing case manager at Branches DVS, I help house some of our most vulnerable West Virginian's. I would advocate to better educate our legislator and communities, as we do not need to be an added barrier to those seeking housing and recovery.
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?
I do advocate for transparency with law enforcement. I would also like to see other community organization to be involved in deescalation, when it comes to mental health, sexual assault and domestic violence. I would also love to see state wide navigating wellness for all first responders like the Compass Program in Huntington.
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?
Decriminalizing marijuana, and focusing our resources away form drug crimes. As a domestic violence advocate we should focus on more violent crimes involving sexual assault and domestic violence.
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?
Everyone has the right to vote, and be heard. It should be restored as soon as possible.