Governor Morrissey launches 4 pillars for a healthier West Virginia

In a spirited gathering at Saint Joseph's in West Virginia, Governor Patrick Morrisey and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. unveiled an ambitious initiative aimed at transforming the health landscape of the state. The meeting, held on March 28, 2025, marked a significant moment as the leaders introduced what Morrisey termed the "4 Pillars of a Healthy West Virginia."

Morrisey's vision for a healthier state began with a commitment to clean up the food available to West Virginians, particularly in schools. He announced the removal of harmful dyes and additives from school nutritional programs, a move he believes will protect children from health issues linked to these substances. "Our kids deserve better, and now they're going to get it," he declared, emphasizing West Virginia's pioneering role as the first state to implement such sweeping changes.

The second pillar focused on purpose and employment, with Morrisey announcing plans to expand work training and educational requirements for SNAP recipients. He stressed the importance of work in fostering mental and physical strength, stating, "If you have the ability to work, you should." This initiative aims to address the state's low workforce participation rate, encouraging residents to find purpose through employment.

Morrisey's third pillar, "Move your body, change your life," called for a statewide exercise movement dubbed the "Mountaineer Mile." He challenged every West Virginian to walk at least one mile a day, acknowledging his own need for improvement in fitness. "We all, as a state, must start exercising more now," he urged, highlighting the mental and physical benefits of regular activity.

The final pillar sought to incentivize healthy food choices within the SNAP program. Morrisey proposed changes to ensure taxpayer dollars support nutritious foods rather than unhealthy options. He expressed a commitment to requesting a waiver from the federal government to eliminate taxpayer-subsidized soda under SNAP, aiming to realign the program with its nutritional goals.

Kennedy, who followed Morrisey's address, reflected on the historical significance of West Virginia in his family's legacy, recalling how his uncle, President John F. Kennedy, relied on the state's support during his presidential campaign. He praised Morrisey's leadership and the collaborative efforts to improve public health in West Virginia.

As the meeting concluded, both leaders expressed optimism about the future of health in the state, with Morrisey declaring, "Making America healthy again and West Virginia healthy again, that's not just a slogan. That's gonna be our mission." The initiative promises to not only enhance the well-being of West Virginians but also to set a precedent for health reform across the nation.