PERSONNEL FILE: Garcia to serve as Tomblin's Director of Legislative Affairs

CHARLESTON – Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin has announced that Joseph D. Garcia will serve as Director of Legislative Affairs for the Governor's Office, effective Nov. 1.

"Joey has been an important member of my administration," Tomblin said. "In addition to his hard work ethic, he is an outstanding individual who demonstrates passion for public service each and every day.

"I have complete confidence in Joey, and I know he will do a great job working with members of the Legislature and leaders from across the state."

Prior to this appointment, Garcia served as Deputy General Counsel to Tomblin. The Fairmont native has also advised Tomblin on policy issues relating to criminal justice reform, represented Tomblin as his designee on the Consolidated Public Retirement Board and, most recently, was appointed by Tomblin to serve as Chair of the West Virginia Intergovernmental Task Force on Juvenile Justice.

Before serving in state government, Garcia practiced law at Spilman, Thomas and Battle, PLLC in Charleston.

"I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to continue my service to Gov. Tomblin and the state of West Virginia," Garcia said. "I look forward to working with members of the West Virginia Legislature in the coming weeks."