W.Va. delegate collects pay for session he missed
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) – A West Virginia lawmaker collected his pay for this year’s regular session while missing the entire 60-day proceeding.
Delegate Joshua Nelson is a member of the West Virginia Air National Guard. He was attending flight training in Texas while the Legislature was meeting in Charleston.
The Boone County Republican tells the Sunday Gazette-Mail he donated his $15,000 in legislative pay to churches and community organizations in the county.
Nelson says he tries to stay in touch with constituents.
House Minority Whip Daryl Cowles says he understands that certain commitments take someone away when they serve in the National Guard.
House Majority Whip Mike Caputo says Nelson’s absence has deprived Boone County residents of a voice in the Legislature.