Bill > HB2801

This bill prohibits government entities and spending units in West Virginia from procuring electric vehicles that may have been produced using forced labor or oppressive child labor. The legislation requires manufacturers to provide a sworn certification that no forced labor or child labor was used in the production of electric vehicles or their components, with specific definitions for these terms. The bill highlights concerns about human rights violations, particularly in the manufacturing of electric vehicle batteries in regions like Xinjiang, China, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. If a manufacturer provides false or misleading information, they would face significant civil penalties, with fines up to $10,000 or the total price of the vehicle. Additionally, government employees, board members, and entities that knowingly violate the procurement restrictions could be personally fined. The bill allows any citizen in the affected district to bring enforcement action, and it will apply to electric vehicle procurement contracts entered into, amended, or renewed after July 1, 2025. The legislation is designed to ensure that West Virginia's government does not inadvertently support industries that engage in human rights abuses through its procurement practices.

Government Affairs

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2801&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill