CHARLESTON, W.Va. - A strong overseas market for West Virginia coal continues to reap dividends for the state's government finances.
Tomblin administration officials credit coal exports for much of the economic health reflected in October's general revenue tax collections.
Last month's general revenues totaled nearly $337 million. That's $25 million more than expected.
Sales and personal income taxes beat their October estimates by a combined $10 million. These are key sources of general revenue, and are also signs of economic activity.
The state's main business taxes also brought in more than expected last month. So did taxes on coal and other extracted natural resources.
Deputy Revenue Secretary Mark Muchow says coal experts were up 42 percent for the calendar year as of August.
Featured