Tell us about yourself.
Name Heather Hill
Office Sought House of Delegates
Party Affiliation Democrat
District 47
City/Town Lewisburg
Campaign Website n/a
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 should have legislation in place in order to protect womens' rights to choose their health care and have safe abortions.
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 support expanding protection of discrimination of any type.
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?
CRT has value in that it educates the history of systemic discrimination/racism through financial, sociological, political, literary, educational areas, etc. I believe this can be efficacious in helping our society and state become more aware and compassionate.
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?
I believe that protections are necessary for equity and equality and do not believe that they infringe upon religious beliefs. I would support a statewide law to protect the LGBTQ+ population.
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 Christianity/the Bible should be taught in public schools unless they are going to teach all religions; nor do I believe any religion should be a prevention program for harm reduction, sex education, or anything of the sort.
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?
Yes WV should welcome refugees!! Our state has opportunities for jobs throughout that others are not taking advantage of. We also have a state filled with natural resources that refugees could help tap into.
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?
Harm reduction programs, psychoeducation related to mental illness and the homeless population as well as more resources for the homeless. Inclusive, compassionate environment, coming together as one so we are less divided.
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 agree with civilian review boards, body cams turned on at all times, and the ability for bystanders to use cell phone footage without punitive consequences. Police need transparence to be held accountable.
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?
WV is systemically racist. We have a 3.7% black population with an 11.6% black incarcerated population. We need to release non-violent offenders of marijuana charges, and change our for profit prison system. There needs to be a complete overhaul with prison reform.
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?
*See above...those should have the right to vote. Any one who is released and is successful with probation and/or parole should have the right to vote.