Q1

Please provide some basic information about  yourself.

Name John Williams

Office Sought delegate 51st district

City/Town Morgantown

Email Address williams4house@gmail.com

Q2

From 1980 to 2016 the West Virginia state prison population has increased by 470%.  What, if anything, would you change to reverse this trend?

Since I started in the legislature, there has been a constant theme of adding new crimes to the books. I do not agree with that approach. 

Additionally, the decriminalization of cannabis would go a long way and reducing West Virginia’s prison population.

Q3

Civil asset forfeiture is a process where police can seize any property "related" to criminal activity and later can file a civil case to forfeit the property to either be used or auctioned for money which is shared between the police department and local prosecutor.  This can happen regardless of whether there is a criminal conviction or even criminal charges brought against a person.Proponents say this is a useful tool for taking ill-gotten gains from criminals and funding police work, and that legal protections adequately prevent abuse of the system.Critics say the system amounts to theft, that many people cannot afford the legal costs to challenge a forfeiture action, and that it creates a perverse incentive for police.Do you support or oppose the practice of civil asset forfeiture?  What, if any, reforms would you make to the practice?

Civil asset forfeiture certainly must be examined to ensure that it is not being used inappropriately. Essentially, we must ensure that the scope is kept to profits from illicit activity. As on any issue, I am open to discussion and other view points.

Q4

More than half the population of West Virginia's regional jails are pre-trial.  That means they haven't been found guilty of any crime yet.  Most are there because they could not afford bail, though some are there because they were denied a chance to post bail.  What changes, if any would you make to our pretrial and/or bail system to balance concerns about safety and court efficiency with ensuring we are not incarcerating people without due process?

I’m not sure if it would help, but in Monongalia County we don’t have enough magistrates to keep up with the workload. I think this would help. I am open to any other suggestions.

Q5

In 2015 West Virginia passed significant reforms to the juvenile justice system.  Despite these reforms, the State still utilizes out of home placement at a high rate for system-involved youth.  What, if anything, should West Virginia do to reduce out-of-home placements for system-involved juveniles?

We should keep our kids here. Any funding that can be allocated to keeping them here should be used.

Q6

West Virginia has a very low voter participation rate.  What changes, if any, would you make to increase voter participation?

I believe in a state wide, vote by mail program.

Q7

Over the past few years, there has been legislation aimed at requiring the Bible to be taught in public schools, allowing a Bible-based elective, or faith-based drug prevention electives.  What is your stance on incorporating religion into the public schools?

I believe in the separation of church and state. As a Catholic, I wouldn’t have appreciated other religions being pushed upon me as a student, and I believe that non Christians shouldn’t have to endure another religion being pushed upon them.

Q8

At least 20 states have passed laws prohibiting discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.  13 West Virginia municipalities have similar protections.  Do you support or oppose a statewide law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in West Virginia?  Why?

I am in full support, and have been a co-sponsor if such legislation. People should not have to live with the fear of losing housing or employment based upon their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Q9

In December 2019, Governor Justice announced that West Virginia would continue accepting refugees.  Do you support or oppose accepting refugees in West Virginia?  Under what conditions?  Why?

I support accepting refugees. Anything that can be done to afford shelter, aid and opportunity to our fellow human should be exercised.

Q10

Over the past few years, some states have continued to erode protections and access to abortion care.  Other states have done the opposite and codified abortion rights that had previously been defined by courts.  Do you favor further restrictions to abortion, expanding or codifying abortion rights, or taking no action on abortion?

I do not support restricting access to abortion. I am pro choice, and believe that efforts should be made to provide comprehensive healthcare for women, including increased access to contraceptives.