Gov. Morrisey Signs HB 4009, Which Expands Portable Benefits for WV’s Independent Workforce, into Law in Elkins
ELKINS, W.Va. — July 15, 2026 — This morning, Governor Patrick Morrisey held a ceremonial bill signing for House Bill 4009 at the Holiday Inn in Elkins. The new law expands the scope of portable benefits for West Virginia’s independent workforce while providing tax incentives for both hiring organizations and the contractors who work with them. With him at the signing included local leaders such as Elkins Mayor Jerry A. Marco.
HB 4009 allows gig workers and freelancers to receive benefits—including health insurance, retirement, disability, and life insurance—from the companies for which they work, without requiring those companies to reclassify them as employees. The law creates a benefits “backpack” that belongs to the independent worker, not the organization, meaning the worker can carry these benefits from job to job. Furthermore, multiple companies can contribute to the same worker’s benefits account.
The signing ceremony in Elkins highlighted the city’s rapid growth as a hub for remote and independent workers, bolstered by the Ascend WV program and revitalization projects in downtown and South Elkins.
“We appreciate Gov. Morrisey’s decision to hold the signing ceremony here in Elkins,” said Mayor Marco. “It was an exciting opportunity for our state’s leadership to see the progress being made in our community.”
Regional Task Force on Homelessness, Addiction, and Mental Health Cancels July 23 Meeting
ELKINS, W.Va. — July 14, 2026 — The July 23 meeting of the Regional Task Force on Homelessness, Addiction, and Mental Health has been canceled due to scheduling conflicts among key leadership. Rather than proceeding with limited attendance, the Task Force will reconvene […]
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City of Elkins Announces Search for New Chief of Police
ELKINS, W.Va. — July 13, 2026 — The City of Elkins is seeking a highly qualified and experienced law enforcement professional to serve as its next Chief of Police. This critical leadership position is responsible for the overall management, strategic direction, and […]
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City Hall News: Week of July 12, 2026
Elkins, W.Va. — July 11, 2026 — The City of Elkins reminds residents about the rules at our yard waste and glass drop-off site. City Hall is close to losing its contract with our waste management vendors because of other waste being […]
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Elkins and Eunice Named Honorary Sister Cities
ELKINS, W.Va. — July 10, 2026 — Mayor Jerry A. Marco today proclaimed the City of Elkins, West Virginia, and the City of Eunice, Louisiana, as Honorary Sister Cities, formally recognizing the deep cultural bonds and shared commitment to preserving traditional music, […]
Read MoreChief of Police Bennett Resigns; City of Elkins Will Soon Launch Search for His Replacement
ELKINS, W.Va. — July 8, 2026 — Elkins Police Department Chief of Police Travis Bennett has announced his resignation, effective today. Mayor Jerry Marco confirmed his departure and said the City of Elkins will soon begin a search for Chief Bennett’s replacement. […]
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City of Elkins Issues Call for Statements of Qualifications for Streetscape and Riverfront Projects
ELKINS, W.Va. — July 7, 2026 — The City of Elkins is seeking statements of qualifications (SOQs) from qualified engineering teams for two major initiatives that will revitalize its downtown and riverfront. SOQs are due by August 7, 2026, and must outline […]
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