Short Takes from the Session: Day 8 (Updated)

COALBED METHANE: The Register-Herald of Beckley hears from one state senator regarding Gov. Joe Manchin's tax-related proposal.

MENTAL HEALTH CARE: Manchin's 2008-2009 budget proposal includes $9 million "to house some mentally ill patients at private facilities because of overcrowding at the state's two main hospitals," The Charleston Daily Mail reports.

ELECTING JUDGES: The Beckley newspaper also details a newly introduced bill that would remove party tags from the elections of West Virginia's judicial officials.

TOO DUMB TO DRIVE? (Update): Manchin's legislative agenda includes a bill "to make passing grades a prerequisite for teenagers seeking to obtain and keep a driver's license, a proposal he hopes will underscore the notion that getting behind the wheel is a privilege that entails certain responsibilities," The Associated Press' Tom Breen reports.