WV Citizen Action Education Group

In 1974, WV CAG founder David Grubb returned to West Virginia after working for consumer advocate Ralph Nader. David toured the state talking to potential supporters about the prospects of forming a statewide citizen organization designed to represent the interests of average citizens.

Since that time, WV CAG has advocated for better public policy, rights of individuals, a clean environment, and a stronger democratic process. Our philosophy is that full-time citizen participation in the decision-making processes of our state is absolutely essential. Our staff and supporters work to increase the voice of the average citizen in public affairs through research, education, lobbying, organizing, and coalition building – speaking out on behalf of the consumer, speaking out in defense of a cleaner environment, and speaking out in favor of a government that is honest, open, and accountable to the needs of all its citizens. Our supporters include activists and people of conscience from every county in the state.

We promote:

Quality, a­ordable healthcare for all.

That’s why we worked for the passage of the Affordable Care Act and support its continued implementation, expansion, and improvement.

Responsible budgeting and fair taxation.

Growing income inequality weakens our nation and our state. Millionaires and corporations should pay their fair share of taxes so that our state and country can invest in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic security for our families.

A healthy environment.

WV CAG has been a leader in the movement to protect our land, air, and water. From original research that contributed to the passage of landmark environmental laws at the federal level to the founding of the WV Environmental Council and efforts to pass major bills on groundwater, recycling, solid waste, incineration, nuclear waste, and hazardous waste at the state level.

Accountability and transparency in elections.

Without robust disclosure and public financing for legislative races, our government will continue to be subject to the undue influence of special interests.

Individual empowerment.

WV CAG works to empower individuals by providing them with resources to be effective advocates on these and other issues that impact their lives.