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Gov. Jim Justice still has time to right a wrong foisted on Northern Panhandle mineral rights owners by vetoing House Bill 4850, which currently awaits his signature.
The legislation would enshrine a mineral rights valuation formula that doesn't work. The State Tax Division has been attempting to implement the formula for two years; both years have resulted in massive mistakes.
Vague promises were made at the end of this session to fix the formula, but that's likely nothing more than lip service. Local lawmakers who voted in favor of the formula -- there were several -- have failed to represent their constituent's interests.
The solution to this needs to come from Justice, who's refused to even address the issue. His Tax Division appears to be inept; only a veto can right this wrong.
The ball's in your court, governor. Veto HB 4850 and have lawmakers fix it -- now. Anything less will show that your concern for residents in our region is, as well, nothing more than lip service.