CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) – The Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy has released its 2026 Legislative Agenda. This includes implementing a “One Door Policy” as modeled in Utah, adopting new social studies curriculum that focuses on civic literacy, and protecting education freedom in the Mountain State. The Cardinal Institute believes these policies should be a top priority for lawmakers during the 2026 Legislative Session.
“Prosperity is never accidental. It is built on freedom, liberty, and sound economic policy. Our legislative priorities are about widening the path to opportunity, lowering barriers to work and entrepreneurship, empowering individuals to shape their own futures, and preparing the next generation to steward the great gift that is the United States. We have made great strides as a state over the last decade, and the 2026 presents another opportunity to further — and deepen — those victories,” President and CEO, Garrett Ballengee said.
Legislative Agenda:
One Door Policy – integration of social safety net and workforce assistance programs to provide more effective services to our fellow Mountaineers and put them on a pathway to stability and self-sufficiency as modeled by Utah’s Department of Workforce Services.
Social Studies Curriculum Reform – at a time when civic literacy is declining nationwide revitalization of civic education emphasizing foundational knowledge, constitutional principles, and the importance of cultivating informed citizens, not just political activists. West Virginia has a unique opportunity to lead the country through adoption of content-rich, age-appropriate curriculum that integrates civics, U.S. history, and government across all grade levels.
Protection of Hope Scholarship and Education Freedom – A strong education system is the foundation of a brighter future. The Cardinal Institute supports expanded eligibility and availability of existing options such as charter schools, the Hope Scholarship program, microschools, and open enrollment in the traditional public school system.
“West Virginia has an opportunity to lead the nation with smart, proven reforms, and we look forward to working with lawmakers to help guide them on policy solutions that promote self-sufficiency, informed citizenship, and strong educational options for every family,” said Chief of Staff, Jessica Dobrinsky.
Founded in 2014, the Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to researching, developing, and communicating effective free-market public policies for West Virginia. This means a hyper focus on economic freedom, education freedom, worker freedom, and a culture of freedom encapsulated in the state’s motto and founding ethos, Montani Semper Liberi — Mountaineers Are Always Free.
For more information about Cardinal’s policy positions: https://cardinalinstitute.com/research/building-opportunity-in-west-virginia-2026-legislative-priorities/
For more information or questions, contact Jessica Dobrinsky, Chief of Staff, at jessica@cardinalinstitute.com
