Community Announcements

42 minutes ago

SBA 2024 Drought Deadline to Apply for Economic Injury Loans Approaching

ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Virginia of the July 15 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by drought and excessive heat occurring on April 16, 2024. The disaster declaration covers the West Virginia counties of McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Monroe and Summers. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises. Under this declaration SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster. “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

Federal Disaster Aid Milestone for July Storms

Federal Disaster Aid Milestone for July Storms September 11, 2026 Over $12 Million in Federal Aid Approved for Storm Victims in North Central West Virginia CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Following an expedited major federal disaster declaration, the West Virginia Emergency Management Division is grateful to recognize that over $12.1M has been provided to storm victims in Lewis, Pleasants, Ritchie, and Upshur counties since the declaration on August 3. The expedited funding delivers direct financial relief to impacted residents across Lewis, Pleasants, Ritchie, and Upshur counties. "Reaching $12 million in FEMA Individual Assistance is a significant milestone that represents direct, meaningful support reaching West Virginians when they need it most," said Dr. Matthew Blackwood, Director of the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD). "Every dollar delivered helps a family rebuild, repair, and take a critical step forward in recovery. We are grateful for the cohesive effort with our local, state, and federal partners to ensure our communities can rebuild." The FEMA Individual Assistance program provides grants to eligible homeowners and renters to help cover rental assistance, essential home repairs, personal property loss, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. How to Apply for Assistance: Residents in Lewis, Pleasants, Ritchie, and Upshur counties who sustained damage from the July storms can still apply for disaster assistance until October 3, 2026: Online: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov Phone: Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 (available daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.) In Person: Visit any local Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). Locations and hours can be found at fema.gov/drc. For any additional information, please contact WVEMD at 304-558-5380, online at emd.wv.gov or via the official West Virginia Emergency Management Facebook page.

Governor Morrisey Celebrates 98th Birthday of Korean War Veteran at Raleigh County Veterans and First Responders Museum

BECKLEY, W.Va. — Today, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey attended a celebration at the Raleigh County Veterans and First Responders Museum, joining family, friends, and veterans to honor local hero Glenn Darrell Johnson on his 98th birthday. "West Virginia is blessed to be home to some of the bravest, most dedicated patriots this nation has ever seen, and today we celebrate a true legend among them,” said Governor Morrisey. “From guarding prisoners during the historic Nuremberg Trials to earning three Bronze Stars in Korea, Glenn answered the call of duty with unwavering courage. Whether through his career on the railroad or his lifetime membership with the Shriners, he has spent a lifetime strengthening our communities. Thank you, Glenn, for your incredible service, and happy 98th birthday!" Johnson is a distinguished veteran of the Korean War. At the end of World War II, he served honorably as a prisoner guard for the historic Nuremberg Trials in Germany. When called upon again during the Korean War, he demonstrated exceptional bravery, earning three well-deserved Bronze Stars. Following his remarkable military service, Johnson built a lasting civilian career, ultimately retiring from the railroad industry. His lifelong commitment to serving others also extends to his role as a dedicated lifetime member of the Shriners. In honor of his 98th year, organizers set out to gather 98 veterans in the room to pay tribute to Mr. Johnson. Governor Morrisey joined the packed room of veterans and community members to celebrate Mr. Johnson's incredible milestone, expressing deep gratitude for a lifetime defined by duty, resilience, and service to both state and nation.

Governor Morrisey Announces Major $7.3 Million Wastewater System Improvement Project for Fort Gay

FORT GAY, W.Va. - Following feedback gathered during his Water Listening Tour, Governor Patrick Morrisey announced a major $7.3 million infrastructure investment for the Town of Fort Gay in Wayne County. "When I went out on our Water Listening Tour, I heard loud and clear from folks in Wayne County about the critical need to upgrade our aging infrastructure," said Governor Morrisey. "Today, I am proud to announce a major win for Fort Gay." The project will comprehensively rehabilitate the town’s wastewater system and construct an extended aeration wastewater treatment plant. Governor Morrisey has recommended approval of $3,100,000 from the Appalachian Regional Commission along with $2,500,000 from the United States Army Corps of Engineers, and $1,700,000 from the West Virginia Water Development Authority Economic Enhancement Grant Fund to complete the funding for this major project. Located within an ARC-designated distressed census tract in Wayne County, the project area has long faced significant infrastructure challenges. Upon completion, the improvements will provide roughly 356 customers with secure, dependable access to modernized wastewater collection and treatment services. "We are proud to support this $7.3 million wastewater system improvement project," said Governor Morrisey. "We're installing a brand-new, extended aeration wastewater treatment plant to completely rehabilitate the town’s system. This means better, more reliable service for roughly 356 customers in a hard-working Wayne County community that deserves our full support." The initiative marks another key step forward in cutting through administrative red tape, delivering tangible results for rural communities, and ensuring that no part of West Virginia is left behind.

West Virginia Tourism Economy Reaches Historic Milestone, Soars to Record $9.4 Billion Economic Impact

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Speaking before hundreds of tourism champions, hospitality leaders, and small business owners at the annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism, state officials announced today that West Virginia’s tourism economy has officially reached unprecedented heights, generating an all-time record economic impact of $9.4 billion. "This tourism boom is a direct reflection of the hard work happening in every corner of our state, proving that when we cut red tape and move at the speed of business, travelers and companies alike are ready to experience everything West Virginia has to offer," said Governor Morrisey. In 2025, the Mountain State welcomed 78.4 million visitors, marking a 1.6% increase over the prior year. Overnight travelers grew by nearly 2%, injecting $6.8 billion directly into local communities, averaging $18.7 million spent every single day to support small businesses, lodging, and outdoor recreation. The announcement comes on the heels of major national recognition. Travel + Leisure recently ranked West Virginia as the second most naturally beautiful state in America, noting it as the only state in the top ten to perform consistently well across every category measured. West Virginia’s growing list of national accolades includes the New River Gorge, which was named one of the 11 most beautiful places in America by Architectural Digest and recognized as the nation's best underrated travel destination by U.S. News & World Report. Southern Living celebrated the town of Davis as one of the best Southern mountain towns to visit, while Travel + Leisure also highlighted the state as a top destination for an extended autumn season. Additionally, the West Virginia Department of Tourism earned the prestigious U.S. Travel Association ESTO Award for its 2026 Vacation Guide, with over 350,000 copies distributed since January. To maintain momentum, a wave of upcoming infrastructure enhancements and private-public partnerships are currently in the works. This includes a $1.8 million investment at Twin Falls Resort State Park dedicated to comprehensive cabin renovations and brand-new lodge HVAC upgrades, alongside an additional $475,000 for upgraded cabin interiors and high-quality mattresses. Launching in spring 2027, Out&West will introduce 32 upscale canvas-tent glamping sites featuring hotel-style furnishings across four state parks: Pipestem, Blackwater Falls, Lost River, and Summersville Lake. Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is also celebrating the grand opening of the new Slabtown Campground this month, featuring 100 new sites, select equestrian hookups with corrals, and full amenities along the Greenbrier River Trail. Other exciting developments include the historic Hill Hall Hotel project bringing a beautifully restored century-old building to downtown Fayetteville near the New River Gorge, the completely modernized and renovated tram at Hawks Nest scheduled to reopen to the public next spring, and a newly announced partnership between the Department of Tourism and the DNR with Firefly Ridge to bring fresh, innovative outdoor developments to state parks. "From our record-breaking $9.4 billion impact and our soaring short-term rental market to our booming food, beverage, and recreation sectors, West Virginia is proving that authentic experiences matter," said Kayla Kessinger, Secretary of Tourism. "People are coming here for adventure, for peace, for unmatched natural beauty, and for the genuine warmth of Appalachian hospitality." The booming visitor economy continues to serve as a vital engine for local prosperity. Tourism directly and indirectly supports 61,728 jobs across West Virginia, meaning roughly 1-in-15 jobs in the state are tied to the visitor economy. Visitor activity generated $2.3 billion in total personal income and brought in $643 million in state and local taxes, translating to nearly $882 in tax relief for every household in the state. This progress builds upon a broader economic transformation across West Virginia, which has secured approximately $96 billion in private-sector investment and more than 19,000 projected jobs in less than a year. "The secret is out, but our best days are still ahead of us," said Governor Morrisey. "Together, we are going to keep building on this record-breaking success, pushing new boundaries, and showing the world why West Virginia is truly Almost Heaven."

Governor Morrisey Announces $4.43 Million Investment to Modernize Moundsville Wastewater Infrastructure

MOUNDSVILLE, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey announced today a major state commitment of $4.43 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) program to help rebuild and modernize Moundsville’s wastewater system. The Clean Water SRF is a state program providing low-cost financing and grants to counties, municipalities, and public service districts to improve, upgrade, or replace critical wastewater infrastructure. “For years, heavy rains have put a massive strain on the city's underground pipes, causing storm water to rush into an aging system, overload main lines, and force untreated wastewater directly into Middle Grave Creek, Grave Creek, and the Ohio River. That’s unacceptable for our families and unacceptable for our environment," said Governor Morrisey. "As I've said numerous times, West Virginians deserve safe, reliable water and wastewater services, and these projects reflect our continued commitment to strengthening the state's infrastructure." The funding will support vital improvements, including repairing and replacing old, leaky main sewer lines underground so rain runoff can no longer overload the system, and upgrading core equipment at the wastewater treatment plant so it can process waste cleanly, safely, and efficiently. This project means stopping raw sewage spills during heavy storms, keeping waterways clean by protecting Middle Grave Creek, Grave Creek, and the Ohio River for children and future generations, and protecting public health while delivering the dependable infrastructure Moundsville deserves. This project is part of a much larger picture of progress taking place all across West Virginia. Under Governor Morrisey’s leadership, the state is experiencing unprecedented momentum, highlighted by nearly $96 billion in total private-sector investments secured in less than a year. “Just as major tech and industrial leaders are stepping up to fund their own project-related infrastructure to protect local ratepayers, investments right here in Moundsville prove that modern, reliable infrastructure is the foundational bedrock of economic success,” said Governor Morrisey. “By making this investment today, the state is protecting our environment, safeguarding public health, and actively building a growing, more prosperous West Virginia for tomorrow.”

Damage Survey

What is the WVEMD Damage Survey? The WVEMD Damage Survey collects information on property damage across West Virginia following severe weather and disasters. Please note: Completing this survey is not an application for personal financial aid, disaster assistance, or immediate relief. How is this information used? Federal Disaster Declarations: Data collected helps state officials determine if damage levels meet the threshold to request a official federal disaster declaration. Resource Allocation: Survey results help state and local agencies assess community needs and coordinate emergency response resources. If you are in need of immediate, emergency sevices, dial 911 or for additional resources contact your local emergency management officials. Storm Damage Survey (CLICK HERE)

What you might not know is eligible for disaster assistance?

What you might not know is eligible for disaster assistance? September 21, 2026 Wells, Septic Systems, and Privately-Owned Roads and Bridges WVEMD Reminds Storm Impacted Families of Additional Damages Eligible for Disaster Assistance CHARLESTON, W.Va. — As storm and flood recovery continues in North Central West Virginia, West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD) reminds impacted individuals of additional damages that could be surprisingly eligible for Disaster Assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Damaged Wells and Septic Systems For private wells and septic systems, FEMA may reimburse you for the cost of a professional, licensed technician to visit your home and prepare an estimate detailing the necessary repairs or replacement of your disaster-damaged systems. In addition to the technician’s estimate, FEMA may also pay for the actual repair or replacement cost of your septic system or well, which typically are not covered by homeowner’s insurance. Privately-Owned Road and Bridges A FEMA inspection is necessary to determine if repairs are necessary for a vehicle to access the property. In addition, the applicant must meet at least one of the following conditions: The road and/or bridge is the only access to the property; No one can access the home due to damaged infrastructure; The safety of the occupants could be at risk because emergency services vehicles, such as an ambulance or a fire truck, cannot reach the residence. To be eligible, the damages must have occurred during the storms on July 21-22 in the eligible counties. The deadline is rapidly approaching for residents in Lewis, Pleasants, Ritchie, and Upshur counties to apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance. The deadline for registration is October 3, 2026 at 11;59 p.m. To apply for Disaster Assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362, download the FEMA App or visit an in-person Disaster Recovery Centers. You can find available centers at fema.gov/drc. For more information, contact the West Virginia Emergency Management Division at 304-558-5380, online at emd.wv.gov or via the official WVEMD social media sites.

SBA Offers Disaster Relief to West Virginia Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits in Berkeley, Jefferson, and Morgan counties affected by March Drought

Watch Center

NOTICE: WVEMD does NOT receive 911 calls or have access to 911 call records. If you need information regarding a 911 call, please contact the county or jurisdiction where the call was placed. The West Virginia Emergency Management Division's (WVEMD) Watch Center is the 24/7 communications hub for emergency management in West Virginia. A significant responsibility is the Watch Center’s continuous monitoring of weather patterns and other events that could potentially impact West Virginia. This approach allows for timely response and preparation, contributing to the state's overall resilience in the face of unforeseen challenges. In addition, the Watch Center plays a pivotal role in upholding the safety standards outlined in West Virginia Code. Among other critical hotlines, it operates the Mine and Industrial Accident Rapid Response Call Center, providing crucial support for mine rescue operations in alignment with statutory requirements. To enhance efficiency and streamline emergency response, the Watch Center consolidates the receiving of calls for various vital services, including the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, the State Fire Marshal’s Arson Hot Line and Tip Line, the Safe Schools Helpline, the West Virginia Drug Tip Line, Workplace Safety Tip Line, Infrastructure Safety Tip Line, West Virginia Public Service Commission hotline and more. This centralized approach ensures a coordinated and swift response to a wide array of situations, reinforcing the Watch Center's role as a cornerstone in West Virginia's emergency management infrastructure. HOTLINE NUMBERS: MIARRS 866-987-2338 ARSON 800-233-3473 DEP 800-642-3074 Safe Schools Helpline 866-723-3982 Public Service Commission Hotline 304-414-3151 WV Drug Tip Line 833-905-DRUG (3784) SIRN Infrastructure Reporting 1-866-76-Radio NRC 800-424-8802 Workplace Safety 866-808-0875 WV Fusion Center 866-989-2824 Federal Mine Safety and Health 800-746-1553 Disaster Distress Helpline 800-985-5990 Contact EMD Building 2000 Box 1P 2001 Union Carbide Drive South Charleston, WV 25303 United States Ph 304-558-5380

Training & Exercises

Training and Exercises Under Construction Contact EMD Building 2000 Box 1P 2001 Union Carbide Drive South Charleston, WV 25303 United States Ph 304-558-5380

SIRN (Statewide Interoperable Radio Network)

The WVEMD Statewide Interoperable Radio Network (SIRN) ensures reliable, secure, and interoperable communication across agencies in West Virginia during emergency situations. This network is essential for coordinating response efforts, sharing critical information, and facilitating efficient collaboration among various emergency response entities, ultimately enhancing overall emergency preparedness and response capabilities across the state. Learn more about SIRN by visiting sirn.wv.gov, the official site for West Virginia's Statewide Interoperable Radio Network.

Grants Administration

Grants | WV Emergency Management Skip to main content An Official West Virginia Government Website State Agency Directory | Online Services | Phone Directory Grants The West Virginia Emergency Management Division works with two different types of grants: Preparedness Grants and Recovery Grants. Preparedness Grants The Preparedness Grants Section is responsible for administering multiple grants which the agency receives from various federal agencies including FEMA, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. These grants are used by state and local jurisdictions to maintain an effective emergency management program and to build and sustain the necessary capabilities to allow the state to prevent, respond to, and recover from various threats and hazards. Grant programs administered by WVEMD include: Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) HSGP is designed to enhance the capability to prevent, protect against, and respond to terrorist attacks. Eligibility: State, local, and tribal organizations Application Portal: Applicants can access and complete their applications viathe WizeHive web application at: https://wv-emd.wizehive.app/program/wvemd-hsgp Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) EMPG supports emergency management needs through investments in planning, training, and exercise activities. Eligibility: Local emergency management agencies Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) NSGP provides federal funding for physical security enhancements and other security-related activities to nonprofit organizations that are at a risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack. Eligibility: Organizations that meet the criteria as described under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and exempt from tax under section 501 (a) FY 26 NSGP is currently accepting applications until July 17th, 2026:https://wv-emd.wizehive.app/program/wvemd-nsgp State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) SLCGP strengthens cybersecurity practices and resilience of state, local, and tribal organizations. Eligibility: State, local, and tribal organizations and public educational institutions Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Grant (HMEP) HMEP provides funding for planning and training activities related to HAZMAT incidents in commercial transportation. Eligibility: Local government agencies (beneficiaries can be other entities) Pipeline Emergency Response Grant (PERG) PERG encourages a comprehensive approach to emergency planning and training by addressing the unique challenges of responding to pipeline emergencies. Eligibility: State, local, tribal organizations Preparedness Grants also provide ongoing education and assistance through the National Flood Insurance Program to lower communityflood insurance rates and educate local and government officials on programs. Recovery Grants To facilitate effective and efficient local recovery, the Recovery Grants Section utilizes the Individual Assistance (IA) Grant Program, Public Assistance (PA) Grant Program, and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). Recovery Grants personnel currently manage open disaster declarations from 2015-2021 with the assistance of FEMA Region III. The open disasters total nearly 3,000 projects and almost $700 million in disaster funding collectively. Long-term recovery is especially important during the early weeks after a major disaster or catastrophic incident when many local, state, and insular-area governments are overwhelmed with the response and short-term recovery efforts. WVEMD participates in and supports recovery planning, capacity building and mitigation efforts by providing training, technical guidance or other assistance as requested and needed. The Public Assistance (PA) grant program provides federal assistance to government organizations and certain private nonprofit (PNP) organizations following a Presidential disaster declaration. PA provides grants to state and local governments, and certain types of PNP organizations so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. Through the program, FEMA provides supplemental federal disaster grant assistance for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged publicly owned facilities, and the facilities of certain PNP organizations. The PA program also encourages protection of these damaged facilities from future events by aiding for hazard mitigation measures during the recovery process. The federal share of assistance is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The Recipient (usually the state) determines how the non-federal share (up to 25 percent) is split with the subrecipients (eligible applicants). Contact EMD Building 2000 Box 1P 2001 Union Carbide Drive South Charleston, WV 25303 United States Ph 304-558-5380 Get in Touch Privacy, Security and Accessibility | WV.gov | USA.gov | © 2026 State of West Virginia

Upcoming Training and Exercises

Upcoming Training and Exercises Visit here to see our upcoming training and exercises available through West Virginia Emergency Management Division and our partners.

Area Liaisons

Region 1 - Ben Hersman - [email protected] Region 2 - Bill Noice - [email protected] Region 3 - Sandy Green - [email protected] Region 4 - Hollis Lipscomb - [email protected] Region 5 - Theresa White - [email protected] Region 6 - VACANT Contact EMD Building 2000 Box 1P 2001 Union Carbide Drive South Charleston, WV 25303 United States Ph 304-558-5380

WV Emergency Management

WV Emergency Management Skip to main content An Official West Virginia Government Website State Agency Directory | Online Services | Phone Directory Careers that make a difference WV Emergency Management seeks talented people to join our team! You can help the citizens of West Virginia before, during and after disasters. Read More Cybersecurity Grant Funding State and Local Agencies Encouraged to Apply for Cybersecurity Grant Funding Read More Previous Next News What you might not know is eligible for disaster assistance?September 21, 2026 Wells, Septic Systems, and Privately-Owned Roads and Bridges Press ReleasesSeptember 21, 2026 Federal Disaster Aid Milestone for July StormsSeptember 11, 2026 Over $12 Million in Federal Aid Approved for Storm Victims in North Central West… See All News and Announcements Emergency Contact Information The Preparedness Grants Section is responsible for administering multiple grants which the agency receives from various federal agencies including FEMA, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. These grants are used by state and local jurisdictions to maintain an effective emergency management program and to build and sustain the necessary capabilities to allow the state to prevent, respond to, and recover from various threats and hazards. To facilitate effective and efficient local recovery, the Recovery Grants Section utilizes the Individual Assistance (IA) Grant Program, Public Assistance (PA) Grant Program, and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). Recovery Grants personnel currently manage open disaster declarations from 2015-2021 with the assistance of FEMA Region III. The open disasters total nearly 3,000 projects and almost $700 million in disaster funding collectively. Enter Emergency Management Site Location Damage Survey SERC/TIER II/LEPC SIRN Training Work with EMD State Emergency Operations Plan Contact EMD Building 2000 Box 1P 2001 Union Carbide Drive South Charleston, WV 25303 United States Ph 304-558-5380 Get in Touch Privacy, Security and Accessibility | WV.gov | USA.gov | © 2026 State of West Virginia

WVEMD Reminds Storm Impacted Families of Additional Damages Eligible for Disaster Assistance

Press Releases | WV Emergency Management Skip to main content An Official West Virginia Government Website State Agency Directory | Online Services | Phone Directory Press Releases September 21, 2026 Image September 21, 2026 - WVEMD Reminds Storm Impacted Families of Additional Damages Eligible for Disaster Assistance September 11, 2026 - Over $12 Million in Federal Aid Approved for Storm Victims in North Central West Virginia September 11, 2026 - Deadline Approaching for Federal Disaster Assistance Following Late July Storms September 3, 2026 - Disaster Recovery Centers to Close for Labor Day August 25, 2026 - Pleasants County Disaster Recovery Center to be Closed Saturday, August 29 August 25, 2026 - West Virginia Requests Additional ‘Clean and Sanitize’ Assistance from FEMA August 19, 2026 - United Way’s 211 Service Can Assist in Completing Official Damage Survey August 17, 2026 - Disaster Recovery Centers to Open in Pleasants and Ritchie Counties Tuesday August 16, 2026 - How To Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance August 16, 2026 - West Virginia Emergency Management Division Releases Damage Survey to Assess Flood Impacts August 14, 2026 - Rumors and Misinformation Regarding FEMA Disaster Assistance August 14, 2026 - FEMA to Open “Pop-Up” Community Outreach Team Sites in Flood Affected Areas August 12, 2026 - West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers Reopen Following Closure Due to Weather August 11, 2026 - West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers Closed Due to Weather in Upshur and Lewis August 7, 2026 - FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers to Open in Upshur and Lewis County This Weekend August 4, 2026 - State of West Virginia to Appeal Disaster Declaration Denial for Boone and Logan Counties July 22, 2026 - West Virginia Emergency Management and Federal Emergency Management Agency to Perform Damage Assessments Following Catastrophic Flooding July 7, 2026 - West Virginia Emergency Management Division Opens Application Period for FY2026 State Homeland Security Program Grant Contact Name Ally Stout (Public Information Officer, WVEMD) Contact Email [email protected] Contact EMD Building 2000 Box 1P 2001 Union Carbide Drive South Charleston, WV 25303 United States Ph 304-558-5380 Get in Touch Privacy, Security and Accessibility | WV.gov | USA.gov | © 2026 State of West Virginia

Identity Theft Protection & Prevention

The West Virginia Attorney General's Office is committed to protecting consumers from identity theft and helping victims recover. Identity theft affects thousands of West Virginians each year, but with proper knowledge and quick action, you can protect yourself and minimize damage if it occurs. What is Identity Theft? Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal identifiable or financial information without your permission. They might steal your name, address, Social Security number, credit or debit card numbers, or even medical insurance numbers. How Identity Thieves Target West Virginians "I thought I kept my personal information secure." Many West Virginians feel this way, but identity thieves use sophisticated methods to obtain your personal information. These criminals may: Access your information through data breaches at businesses where you have accounts Contact you by phone or email claiming to represent legitimate companies, medical offices, pharmacies, or government agencies Install skimmers at ATM machines or point of sale system to digitally steal information from your credit or bank card Obtain personal information from your phone when you use public Wi-Fi Search your social media accounts to find identifying information in posts or photos Steal your wallet or purse to get your ID and credit or bank cards Use "phishing" emails and fraudulent websites designed to steal your information What Identity Thieves Do with Your Information Drain funds from your bank accounts File fraudulent tax returns to steal your refund Make unauthorized charges on your credit cards Obtain medical treatment using your health insurance Open new utility accounts in your name In extreme cases, provide your name to law enforcement during arrests Warning Signs of Identity Theft West Virginians should watch for these indicators that someone may have stolen their personal information: Debt collectors contacting you about debts you don't owe Health insurance claims being denied because records show you've reached benefit limits Health plan coverage being denied due to medical conditions you don't have IRS notifications about multiple tax returns filed in your name or income from unknown employers Medical bills for services you didn't receive Merchants refusing to accept your checks Missing bills or other expected mail Notice that your information was compromised in a data breach Unexplained withdrawals from your bank accounts Unfamiliar accounts or charges appearing on your credit report If Your Information is Lost or Stolen If your wallet, Social Security card, or other personal information is lost or stolen, take immediate action even if your accounts show no problems: Contact the Credit Reporting Companies Place a fraud alert on your credit file by contacting the three nationwide credit reporting companies: Equifax: 1-800-525-6285 Experian: 1-888-397-3742 TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289 Monitor Your Accounts Check bank and credit card statements regularly for unusual activity Order free copies of your credit reports to monitor for fraudulent accounts You're entitled to one free credit report annually from each company – stagger your requests to get reports every four months Extended Fraud Alerts If you've filed an Identity Theft Report with law enforcement, you can place an extended fraud alert on your credit file. This enhanced protection: Lasts for seven years instead of the standard alert period Provides two free credit reports within 12 months from each reporting company Removes your name from prescreened credit offer lists for five years Requires creditors to take additional steps to verify your identity How to Place an Extended Fraud Alert: Contact each of the three nationwide credit reporting companies Request an extended fraud alert on your credit file Complete any required request forms Include a copy of your Identity Theft Report Keep records of all communications and mark your calendar for the seven-year expiration Extended fraud alerts are provided at no cost to identity theft victims. Credit Freezes A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, making it harder for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. Important facts about credit freezes: A freeze doesn't affect your credit score You can still access your free annual credit reports You must temporarily or permanently lift the freeze when applying for credit, jobs, insurance, or rentals Existing accounts and some types of identity theft may not be prevented Costs and Requirements: Credit freeze costs vary by state law. In West Virginia, identity theft victims may be eligible for free credit freezes with proper documentation, such as a police report. Contact the West Virginia Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at 1-800-368-8808 for guidance on your specific situation. How to Place a Credit Freeze: Contact the West Virginia Attorney General's Office to understand fees and requirements Contact each of the three nationwide credit reporting companies Report that you are an identity theft victim Request a credit freeze on your file Pay any required fees as determined by state law Maintain records of all freeze-related communications Your Legal Protections West Virginia consumers are protected by federal laws that limit liability for unauthorized card use. Credit Card Protection: Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, your liability for unauthorized credit card use is limited to $50. If you report a lost card before it's used fraudulently, you have no liability. If only your credit card number is stolen (not the physical card), you're not liable for unauthorized charges. ATM and Debit Card Protection: The Electronic Fund Transfer Act provides protection based on how quickly you report unauthorized use: Before any unauthorized use: $0 liability Within 2 business days of discovering loss: Maximum $50 liability 2-60 calendar days after learning of loss: Maximum $500 liability More than 60 days after statement date: Unlimited liability, potentially including linked accounts For unauthorized transactions using your debit card number (without losing the physical card), report within 60 days of receiving your statement to avoid liability. Report Fraudulent Transactions Immediately Quick action limits your financial responsibility for unauthorized charges: Contact your card issuer immediately using their 24-hour fraud reporting number Follow up in writing including your account number, when you noticed the card missing, and when you first reported the loss Monitor statements carefully and report unauthorized transactions promptly Send dispute letters to the billing error address provided by your card issuer Check your insurance coverage some homeowner's and renter's policies cover card theft liability Get Help from the West Virginia Attorney General's Office If you're a victim of identity theft or have questions about protecting yourself, the West Virginia Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division is here to help. If you believe you've been the victim of unlawful practices, fill out a Consumer Complaint Form. For additional assistance or questions about identity theft prevention, contact our Consumer Protection Division: West Virginia Attorney General's OfficeConsumer Protection and Anti-Trust Division1900 Kanawha Boulevard, EastBuilding 1, Room E-26Charleston, WV 25305 Mailing Address:P.O. Box 1789Charleston, WV 25326 Phone: 304-558-8986 Consumer Hotline: 1-800-368-8808

Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP)

Rural Health Transformation Program | WV Department of Health Skip to main content An Official West Virginia Government Website State Agency Directory | Online Services | Phone Directory Search Text Box Rural Health Transformation Program The West Virginia Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) launches a once-in-a-generation effort to make health the foundation of economic strength, building a healthy rural workforce and a self-reliant economy through innovation, prevention, and partnership. The West Virginia Department of Health has been chosen by Governor Patrick Morrisey to serve as the lead agency on this initiative. Guided by Governor Morrisey’s “Health to Prosperity” vision, the program positions rural health improvement and strategic technology investment as West Virginia’s greatest growth opportunity to support the state’s future—with the goal of helping more West Virginians get care, recover, re-enter the workforce, and contribute to thriving local economies. To do this, the state will tackle the foundational health barriers that hold back workforce participation (including through addiction recovery, treatment for behavioral health and chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, COPD, asthma), make West Virginia a national hub for rural health innovation, and modernize care delivery and payment systems to ensure long-term sustainability. West Virginia Secures $199 Million in 2026 from Rural Healthcare Transformation Fund | WV Office of the Governor Patrick Morrisey LeadershipListsery ResourcesGrants Image This website is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $199,476,098.72 with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS, Pending Approval of Revised Budget. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government. One Davis Square Suite 100, East Charleston, WV 25301 United States Boards and Commissions Developmental Disabilities Council WV Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing WV Governor's Early Intervention Interagency Coordinating Council Nondiscrimination Policies and Plans Get in Touch Privacy, Security and Accessibility | WV.gov | USA.gov | © 2026 State of West Virginia