Recognizing dedicated public service of Honorable Michael Andrew Woelfel

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Azinger and 25 co-sponsors

The resolution formally recognizes Michael Woelfel’s decades of public service in law, judiciary, academia, and the Senate, as a ceremonial tribute.

Completed legislative action

Summary of Senate Resolution 67 (SR 67) – West Virginia, 2026

Purpose and Intent

SR 67 recognizes and commends the dedicated public service of the Honorable Michael Andrew Woelfel.

The resolution highlights Woelfel’s career in law, public service, and education, and documents his service in the West Virginia Senate as well as previous roles in the judiciary and academia.

It notes that Woelfel has decided not to seek re-election in 2026 and conveys formal appreciation from the Senate.

Key Provisions and Provisions’ Effects

Formal recognition: The bill designates a Senate Resolution acknowledging Woelfel’s contributions to the state and its citizens.

Multifacted summary of service: The resolution provides a biographical overview, including:

Birthdate and family background.
Education: BA in History from Marshall University; Juris Doctor from West Virginia University College of Law.
Prior public service roles: Assistant Prosecuting Attorney (Cabell County), Juvenile Court Referee (Supreme Court of Appeals of WV).
Academic tenure: More than three decades as an Adjunct Professor at Marshall University.
Legislative service: Elected to the West Virginia Senate in 2014; served on numerous committees (Agriculture, Banking and Insurance, Confirmations, Economic Development, Energy, Industry and Mining, Enrolled Bills, Finance, Government Organization, Judiciary, Military, Natural Resources, Pensions, Rules, School Choice, Transportation and Infrastructure, Workforce), and leadership roles (Minority Whip in the 85th Legislature; Minority Leader in the 86th and 87th Legislatures).

Timing and procedural notes: The resolution is introduced and placed on immediate consideration, with the committee reference dispensed, and subsequently adopted (Roll Call No. 677) on March 14, 2026. No legislative changes or funding appropriations are proposed; the action is ceremonial.

Who is Affected

Honorable Michael Andrew Woelfel: Primary recipient of the recognition.

West Virginia Senate and the broader public: Receives formal acknowledgment of Woelfel’s service and leadership contributions.

The resolution may serve as a historical record and a ceremonial precedent for honoring public service.

Procedural and Timeline Details

Introduction: March 14, 2026.

Process: Immediate consideration granted; committee reference dispensed.

Adoption: March 14, 2026 (Roll No. 677).

Next steps: As a concurrent or Senate resolution, it does not carry binding policy or fiscal impact but serves to formally recognize service; a copy is to be forwarded to Woelfel by the Clerk.

Context and Significance

SR 67 is a formal, non-binding tribute acknowledging decades of public service, educational work, and leadership in West Virginia government.

The resolution documents a comprehensive career timeline and leadership roles, illustrating Woelfel’s impact across legislative, judicial, and academic spheres.