Charleston Leader

In a recent op-ed published in the Charleston Gazette-Mail and the Wheeling Intelligencer, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, representing West Virginia and serving as Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, outlined her priorities for the 119th Congress. These priorities focus on initiatives significant to West Virginians.

"Now, as Chairman of the EPW Committee, I will continue to make certain West Virginia always has a seat at the table. That has been a central motivation of mine since I first came to Congress," stated Chairman Capito.

Capito emphasized efforts to "unleash the restraints that have delayed our ability to manufacture, build, and capitalize on economic development opportunities that create good-paying jobs." She also highlighted investments in infrastructure such as roads and bridges, improvements in water systems, and completion of projects like Corridor H. Furthermore, she stressed restructuring regulations hindering pipeline development and energy infrastructure expansion while maintaining environmental protection.

Senator Capito remarked on her expanded role following President Trump's return to office with a Republican majority in Congress. Her new responsibilities include serving as senior senator from West Virginia and Chairman of both the Senate Republican Policy Committee and EPW Committee.

The EPW Committee is responsible for policies addressing infrastructure, economic development, energy, and environmental challenges nationwide. Capito's tenure on this committee dates back to 2015 when she joined the U.S. Senate.

Among her main objectives as Chairman is advancing American energy by addressing barriers under environmental laws affecting coal and natural gas resources in West Virginia. She aims to collaborate with President Trump to reverse regulations from the previous administration deemed harmful or illegal.

Capito plans to prioritize reauthorizing federal programs for transportation and water infrastructure set to expire in 2026. Additionally, she intends to expedite confirmation of nominees for key federal agency positions within the EPW Committee's jurisdiction.

"If you know me, you know that West Virginia is always in the front of my mind," said Capito. As a lifelong native of West Virginia, she expressed commitment to representing its people in the U.S. Senate.

Shelley Moore Capito also serves on other committees including Appropriations, Commerce, and Rules Committees while holding leadership positions within her party.