Social Policy
West Virginia Social Issues Guide 2026
West Virginia social policy at a glance: abortion laws, gun regulations, LGBTQ+ protections, marijuana status, and how these issues shape the 2026 elections.
Near-Total Ban
Abortion Status
Very Permissive
Gun Laws
No Protections
LGBTQ+ Rights
$8.75/hr
Minimum Wage
Abortion Laws in West Virginia
Near-Total Ban
SB 4X (2022)
Near-total ban with narrow exceptions
Gun Laws in West Virginia
Very Permissive
Permitless carry; no red flag law; minimal restrictions
LGBTQ+ Rights in West Virginia
No Protections
No state anti-discrimination protections
Other Key Issues
| Marijuana | Medical only |
| Minimum Wage | $8.75/hr |
2026 Political Context
West Virginia was once Democratic but has shifted hard right. Joe Manchin chose not to run for re-election; Republican Jim Justice won his Senate seat in 2024. Now safely R.