Only a few weeks remain in this year’s regular West Virginia legislative session and lawmakers have much work to do to when it comes to improving the state’s economy. Let’s hope there is a push between now and the session’s end on April 12 to prioritize legislation that will help Gov. Patrick Morrisey fulfill one of his key initiatives — making West Virginia more competitive with its neighboring states.

One of the bills Morrisey wants to get across the finish line is Senate Bill 458 — the Universal Professional and Occupational Licensing Act. This legislation, which has passed through the Senate and now awaits House action, would allow for licensing reciprocity in West Virginia for professions governed by state code. What that means is that a physical therapist licensed in Ohio, for example, would not have to go through the process of being re-licensed in West Virginia if that therapist moved to West Virginia and practices here. That’s a common-sense approach to government getting out of the way.

But much more needs done — and the clock is ticking. On the economic freedom front, already this year one of our neighbors — Kentucky — lowered the personal income tax rate from 4% to 3.5%, starting in 2026. That provides an option for those living in West Virginia’s southwest corridor to move across the border and pay less in taxes. Consider those of us living in the Northern Panhandle, in an area such as Morgantown or along the Ohio River near Parkersburg to Huntington. We’re paying a top rate of 4.82% on our income. In Pennsylvania, the state tax on income is 3.07%, while Ohio’s current top rate is 3.5%.

Here’s a truth — people will decide where to live based on how much they will pay in taxes, particularly higher income earners. Companies decide where to locate depending on where they can find an eligible work force, and where that work force will be happiest. States with lower taxes and more economic freedom tend to attract companies seeking expansion. We need to be in that discussion.

Legislators have until April 12 to begin addressing some of these matters and many others. There has been strong positive momentum in recent years — now is not the time to pull back. Finish the session strong with legislation that matters to West Virginia and its future.