Major Controversies Surrounding Jim Justice: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Jim Justice.

Jim Justice is an American politician and businessman currently serving as a U.S. Senator for West Virginia (since 2025). He previously served as the 36th Governor of West Virginia (2017-2025). Justice inherited and expanded a coal mining business from his father, comprising 94 companies. His business ventures also include ownership of the Greenbrier, a luxury resort and National Historic Landmark. Once a billionaire, his net worth was estimated at $664.2 million in 2025.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

2016: NPR Called Justice a Top Mine Safety Delinquent

In 2016, NPR labeled Jim Justice as the nation's "top mine safety delinquent" due to alleged safety violations and unpaid taxes by his mining companies.

April 13, 2017: Vetoed Budget Bill with Cow Manure Prop

On April 13, 2017, Jim Justice vetoed a budget bill passed by the West Virginia legislature, calling it "nothing more than a bunch of political you-know-what" and displaying a prop featuring cow manure.

2017: Justice Opposed Bill on LGBTQ Service Refusal

In 2017, Jim Justice opposed a bill that would have allowed businesses to refuse service to LGBTQ customers.

2019: Debt-Related Lawsuits Settled

In 2019, Jim Justice settled two debt-related lawsuits.

2020: ProPublica Investigation

According to a 2020 ProPublica investigation, Jim Justice had paid more than $128 million in judgments and settlements over his businesses' unpaid bills.

2020: Mining Companies Agreed to Pay Delinquent Fines

In 2020, mining companies owned by Jim Justice or his family agreed to pay $5 million in delinquent safety fines.

2021: Appointed Bray Cary to WVU Board of Directors

In 2021, Jim Justice appointed Bray Cary to the West Virginia University board of directors and later received loans from him.

2021: Justice Signed Law Prohibiting Transgender Athletes

In 2021, Jim Justice signed a law prohibiting transgender athletes from competing in West Virginia.

October 2023: Helicopter Seized to Pay Debt

In October 2023, a federal court ordered the U.S. Marshals Service to seize and sell a helicopter owned by Jim Justice's company to pay an $8 million judgment to a creditor.

2023: Justice Signed Legislation Prohibiting Gender-Affirming Care for Minors

In 2023, Jim Justice signed legislation prohibiting gender-affirming care for minors.

2024: Justice to Review Fairness Act

In 2024, Jim Justice said he would need to review and "see the bill" before committing to sign the Fairness Act, legislation that would prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.