Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. joined West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey last Friday in Martinsburg to promote Morrisey’s “four-pillar” plan to improve West Virginians’ health. To improve the Mountain State’s last-in-the-nation rankings for obesity, diabetes, and other health indicators, Morrisey supports:
- Ingredient bans. As of August 1, 2025, HB 2354, signed by the Governor last Monday, prohibits the use of Red Dye No. 3 and other food dyes and preservatives in any school nutrition program. As of January 1, 2028, the ban will extend to all food products sold in the state.
- More work. Morrisey plans to increase minimum work, training and education requirements in order to be eligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
- More movement. Pledging to improve his own exercise and diet habits, Morrisey encouraged everyone to exercise more and walk a “Mountaineer Mile” each day.
- Healthier food incentives. Secretary Kennedy promised to approve the state’s request for a waiver to disallow sugary drinks (like soda) from being purchased with SNAP benefits.
According to Dr. Mark Cucuzzella, a prominent local physician, educator and health advocate, “Governor Morrisey’s call to action is exactly what West Virginia needs.” Cucuzella pointed to grassroots programs that have proven effective locally, such as Double Bucks SNAP for healthy food access and bringing movement back to school. “We have the tools to turn the tide on our state’s health crisis — now we just need the will to implement them.”
Federal Cuts Likely To Affect West Virginia
Morrisey’s health initiative takes place against a backdrop of significant federal restructuring of government health programs whose impact on the Mountain State is unclear. Earlier today, HHS announced extensive firings at all levels to implement Kennedy’s plan to reduce its workforce by 20,000 or almost 25%. Among the HHS agencies affected are the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control, and the Food & Drug Administration. In addition, President Trump has indicated support for structural changes and cuts to Medicaid, a government program that in 2022 spent more than $5.5 billion in West Virginia with 81.8% paid by federal money according to information compiled by KFF (formerly the Kaiser Family Foundation).
Locals Attend Governor’s Event
The Governor’s event was held at St. Joseph School in Martinsburg. During the event, the Governor thanked several state delegates and senators who had supported the dye ban legislation. Many local elected official from Jefferson and Berkeley Counties also attended (photos below).
