Gary Howell

Gary Howell is an American politician and businessman currently serving as a member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, representing the 87th district. A member of the Republican Party, Howell has been active in state politics since his election to the House in 2010. He has a diverse background that includes extensive involvement in the motorsports industry, where he has worked as a racer, builder of race cars, and a designer of automotive parts. Howell is also recognized for his advocacy on behalf of small businesses and consumers, particularly in relation to credit card fraud and reform of credit card laws in the United States.

Early life and career

Gary Howell was born on November 1, 1966, and has spent his entire life in Keyser, West Virginia. His formative years were spent in this small community, where he developed a passion for motorsports that would shape both his career and his political advocacy. Howell graduated from Keyser High School and furthered his education at Potomac State College and Frostburg State University in Maryland, where he completed his studies in 1990.

Howell's professional journey has been deeply intertwined with the automotive industry. He has participated in various aspects of motorsports, including racing stock cars and drag cars. His skills extend beyond racing; he has also built award-winning show cars and designed parts for racing vehicles. In addition to his hands-on work in the automotive field, Howell has engaged with the public through media, hosting and writing a syndicated radio show, contributing articles to automotive magazines, and making guest appearances as a technical expert on automotive television programs.

In addition to his work in motorsports, Howell has been an advocate for small businesses and consumers. He has focused on issues such as credit card fraud and the need for reform in credit card laws, aiming to protect consumers and support local businesses in West Virginia.

Before entering the House of Delegates, Howell sought public office on two occasions. He ran for a seat on the Mineral County Commission in 2006 but was unsuccessful, losing to incumbent Cynthia L. Pyles. In 2008, he attempted to secure a position in the West Virginia Senate but was defeated by Robert Williams. Despite these setbacks, Howell continued to pursue a political career and was elected to the House of Delegates in 2010, representing the 49th district.

Legislative service

Gary Howell's legislative career began with his election to the West Virginia House of Delegates in 2010. Since then, he has been actively involved in various legislative initiatives and has served in multiple capacities within the House. After his re-election in 2012, he was appointed as the Minority Chairman of the Government Organization Committee, where he played a significant role in shaping legislation related to government operations and organization.

Throughout his time in office, Howell has introduced and supported various pieces of legislation. One notable initiative is the West Virginia Intrastate Coal and Use Act, which he introduced in response to concerns about federal overreach by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This legislation asserts that coal sold and used within West Virginia should not fall under EPA jurisdiction, as it pertains to intrastate commerce. Howell's introduction of this bill reflects his commitment to advocating for the rights of West Virginia to manage its own resources without federal interference.

In addition to his legislative responsibilities, Howell has been recognized for his leadership within the state. In November 2013, he was appointed as the national chairman of the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus, a bipartisan group comprising nearly 600 state lawmakers from all 50 states. This position underscores his dedication to promoting the interests of automotive enthusiasts and the broader automotive industry at the national level.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, Gary Howell has focused on several key policy areas that reflect both his personal interests and the needs of his constituents in the 87th district. His background in the automotive industry informs his legislative priorities, particularly in advocating for policies that support small businesses and protect consumer rights. Howell's commitment to addressing issues related to credit card fraud and reforming credit card laws highlights his dedication to safeguarding the financial interests of West Virginians.

In addition to his advocacy for consumer rights, Howell's legislative efforts have also centered on resource management, particularly concerning coal and energy policies. His introduction of the Intrastate Coal and Use Act illustrates his stance on the importance of local control over natural resources, a significant issue in a state where the coal industry plays a crucial role in the economy.

Howell's constituents in the 87th district benefit from his extensive knowledge of the automotive sector, as well as his commitment to addressing local economic concerns. His experience in motorsports and small business advocacy positions him as a representative who understands the challenges faced by both industries and the individuals who rely on them for their livelihoods.

Throughout his career, Howell has received recognition for his contributions to both the automotive industry and public service. He was named one of West Virginia's "Generation Next: 40 under 40" by the State Journal in 2006, acknowledging his potential as a leader in the state. Additionally, he was honored as the "West Virginia Exporter of the Year" by the Small Business Administration in 2003, reflecting his impact on the local economy. In 2021, he received a Lifetime Achievement award from the SEMA Action Network for his work with the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus, further demonstrating his commitment to the automotive community.

In summary, Gary Howell's career as a state legislator is characterized by his advocacy for small businesses, consumer rights, and local control over resources. His background in the automotive industry and his ongoing commitment to his constituents in the 87th district continue to shape his legislative priorities and efforts in the West Virginia House of Delegates.