Associated Press Published

W.Va. Democrats Oppose Attorney General's Call for More Audits

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Democratic legislative leaders won’t back Attorney General Patrick Morrisey’s call for more audits of the West Virginia Legislature, state office holders and agencies.
 
     The Republican attorney general is urging lawmakers to institute additional audits amid controversy over a $5 million state Department of Agriculture loan program. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is investigating the program’s alleged mismanagement of money.
 
     Democratic Senate President Jeff Kessler and House Speaker Tim Miley questioned the need for more audits.
 
     Miley also has targeted Morrisey for ties to two drug companies that his office is suing. Morrisey said he recused himself from the cases because his companies are his wife’s lobbying clients. The lawsuits stem from the last attorney general.
 
     Miley is calling for stronger conflict of interest laws as a result.