Bill Flanigan Would Focus on Substance Abuse In Legislature
WHEELING – Republican Bill Flanigan believes the most important issue facing West Virginia and the Northern Panhandle is substance abuse and the fallout suffered due to this epidemic.
Flanigan, 50, is a candidate for the District 4 seat in the West Virginia House of Delegates. He faces Democrat Johnny Haught in Tuesday’s election.
“The impact of addiction reaches every corner of our community, affecting families, our workforce, and the overall health of our residents,” Flanigan said. “Substance abuse doesn’t just destroy lives. It strains our healthcare system, burdens our law enforcement, and hampers economic growth.
“A horrible example is that West Virginia has the highest rate of children in foster care in the country with parental drug abuse being cited as the reason for nearly half of the children being removed from their homes.”
Flanigan suggests West Virginia needs a comprehensive approach to curbing substance abuse “that prioritizes prevention, treatment, and recovery support.”
This would include investing in education and prevention programs,and focusing on school children “to equip our youth with the knowledge and resilience they need to avoid substance use,” he added.
“Second, we need to ensure that treatment options are accessible and effective, focusing on both inpatient and outpatient services,” Flanigan continued. “We must also support initiatives that encourage recovery, providing pathways for individuals to reintegrate into society, find employment, and rebuild their lives.”
Flanigan studied law at the West Virginia University College of Law and has practiced as an attorney in the state of West Virginia since 2008
In 2016, he was appointed to the House to represent District 51 in Morgantown. But the rediscovery of cancer within him shortly after led him to not seek re-election after just one year in the chamber.
During his tenure in the House, Flanigan spoke on the House floor of numerous benefits medical marijuana edibles provided him while he was going through chemotherapy. His words led to a law legalizing medical marijuana in the state.
Eight years later, Flanigan reports that as of his last scan, he had no hot spots indicating cancer.
He moved to Wheeling in 2021 so that his son could attend Wheeling Country Day School.
“My primary message is one of hope, community, and opportunity for all residents of the 4th District,” Flanigan said. “I believe in the power of our local communities and the importance of listening to the needs of my constituents. I will be their voice in Charleston.”