Name Katie Fallon
Office Sought WV House of Delegates
Party Affiliation Democrat
District 82
City/Town Morgantown
Campaign Website I don't have one yet
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?
I believe that a woman has a right to the full range of reproductive health care options, including abortion. The decision to have children is incredibly personal and private. The last entity that I want involved in my reproductive health is the government.
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?
I would support expanding this protection statewide. No one should be discriminated against because of race or appearance.
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?
The legislature should play no role in determining this curriculum. Teachers need to be able to teach without fearing lawsuits based on how comfortable the students' parents are with subject matter. As an educator myself, I believe that "discomfort" with subject matter is sometimes necessary -- or at least it can be important -- for learning.
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?
These protections are necessary. Discrimination based on gender identify or sexuality is wrong. I would support a statewide law extending these protections to the LGBTQ community.
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 think religions can be studied as concepts or as literature in courses designed for that purpose, but schools cannot actively promote or mandate any religion.
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, West Virginia should absolutely welcome refugees and immigrants. Besides the fact that welcoming these folks is the right thing to do, immigrants will make our state stronger.
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?
This is a difficult issue. Municipalities can help houseless people by offering or partnering on shelters and low-cost housing options. Cities can also offer public mental-health services and addiction recovery programs for the houseless community.
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 think civilian review boards to examine incidents and policies is a good idea. I am not an expert on this issue, but it seems like police exist to protect and serve our communities and civilians, so I don't think arguments against civilian review boards are founded.
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?
Decriminalize non-violent offenses, or at least shorten sentences for these types of crimes. Expand work-release and community service programs, and focus on treatment for drug and alcohol offenders.
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?