Data Centers & Power Costs: West Virginia lawmakers grilled state regulators and utilities over how new transmission lines could drive higher electric bills as data center demand grows, with officials saying much of the rate control sits with federal regulators. Water Infrastructure: Weirton’s water board is moving ahead with a $4.34M Walnut Street line replacement, upgrading 3,500 feet of pipe to help prevent recurring breaks and conservation orders. Local Development Dispute: Morgantown’s East End Village redevelopment faces fresh legal trouble as a parcel owner alleges an improper transfer and threatens to halt construction and pursue records through discovery. Energy Storage Push: A new U.S. coalition is working to accelerate sodium-ion batteries as a cheaper, safer alternative to lithium for grid and data-center storage needs. Rural Community Support: Nexstar’s foundation awarded $5,000 grants to the Marion County Humane Society and a Kansas nonprofit supporting families after Type 1 diabetes diagnoses. Policy for Farmers & Gas Prices: The House passed year-round E-15 legislation while the Senate version gains momentum, aiming to boost ethanol demand and lower gas prices. Storm Aftermath: Severe weather swept through West Virginia with power outages and downed lines, but officials reported damage was generally limited. Healthcare Workforce: PracticeLink named recipients of its Spring 2026 First Practice Fund scholarships to support clinicians entering practice in underserved and rural areas.