Committee advances bill to create statewide ALS services program after testimony

A Senate committee voted to report House Bill 5327 to the full Senate after hearing testimony and sponsor remarks describing an ALS services program.

Counsel explained that the proposed program—housed in the Department of Human Services—would provide care services, coordination, assistive technology and multidisciplinary ALS clinics. The bill as presented carries no funding in its current form and counsel said a fiscal note had been requested but not provided as of the committee meeting.

Sponsor Delegate Young introduced witnesses who joined by Zoom, including Jason Canterbury, a constituent living with ALS, and a Marshall University clinician; technical difficulties prevented Canterbury from speaking during his time on the record. "I'm really glad he's here," Delegate Young said, noting Canterbury's situation while the committee worked to resolve audio issues.

Several legislators voiced support for the bill, including a senator who described personal experience with ALS and urged investment to improve quality of life for patients. Following discussion, the vice chair moved that the bill be reported to the full Senate with a recommendation that it pass; the chair declared the motion adopted by voice vote.

Next steps: The measure was reported to the full Senate for further consideration; the committee record shows the bill will be transmitted as recommended.