Special Session Update

* The Associated Press offers an overview of Gov. Joe Manchin's special session agenda as it begins moving through the Legislature.

* Wired Surveillance: AP also focuses on changes by the House Judiciary Committee to this proposal from Manchin. Law enforcement officials at the meeting voiced support for the amended bill, but Public Broadcasting hears from officers who don't believe the pending measure goes far enough. The (Huntington) Herald-Dispatch also assesses the bill, as does The Charleston Gazette.

* Turnpike Tolls: the Bluefield Daily Telegraph interviews asks local lawmakers for their opinions of the proposed income tax break. The Register-Herald of Beckley raises the question (echoed in the AP roundup) from one area legislator that the deduction could set the stage for a future toll rate hike.

* Metal Thefts: the Beckley newspaper also checks in with a lobbyist for scrap dealers who appears on board with Manchin's measure dealing with copper and other metal thefts. A similar bill foundered during the year's regular session.

Lawmakers expect to wrap up the session today. The Legislature's Office of Reference & Information offers a hyperlinked list of the special session bills.