Geoffrey 'Geoff' Bruce Foster (born May 10, 1986) is an American politician who has served as the Delegate from the 15th District to the West Virginia House of Delegates since 2014. Foster has chaired the state's legislative Freedom Caucus since its formation in September 2023.[1]
In 2018 and 2020 respectively, Foster received 0% ratings from the Sierra Club and the AFL–CIO.[2]
COVID-19 pandemic
Foster voted for House Bill 335, which makes it more difficult for businesses to mandate the COVID-19 vaccine for their workers. The law made it easier for workers to use medical or religious exemptions to evade such mandates.[2][13]
Healthcare
Foster was one of only four West Virginia legislators to vote against House Bill 4543, which capped the monthly copay for insulin at $100. Only three other Republican Delegates opposed the bill.[14][15]
Transgender rights
Foster voted for Senate Bill 341, a bill that would prohibit transgender athletes from competing on the team that aligns with their gender identity.[2][16]
Water Standards
Foster was supported a bill that would weaken certain water quality standards. Although the bill updates some standards, it raises the allowable concentrations of several chemicals, including some that are considered to be carcinogenic. The bill would also cede the power of West Virginia legislative committees to review changes to regulatory health criteria. The bill was criticized by local environmental groups as dangerous and irresponsible.[17][18]
Worker's rights
Foster voted for SB 11, a bill that would make it more difficult for employees to strike.[2][19]
Foster was the lead sponsor of House Bill 2009, which would prevent the direct collection of dues for labor unions representing public employees. Labor unions argued that direct collection of dues from paychecks was the most efficient means of raising revenue and eliminating that would result in significant cuts for the union. The law was initially suspended by lower courts but allowed by the West Virginia Supreme Court.[20][21][22][23]