Sara Bird: Stop jailing nonviolent offenders

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Last week, the Republican caucus outlined their proposal to turn West Virginia around by working with "like-minded friends across the aisle" to move forward a "pro-jobs, pro-growth agenda." The focus on economic security was reiterated in Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin's State of the State address where he expressed his dedication to "prepare for our future by taking action" -- to keep our families safe and to build opportunities for the future.

Both Tomblin and the Republican caucus focused on the state's bottom line, vowing to invest in programs that will strengthen West Virginia's economy. They spoke of education reform, the drain prison overcrowding is placing on county budgets, and the need to address the devastating impacts of poverty in Appalachia.