Bill > HB3342

This bill establishes the Firearms Industry Nondiscrimination Act, which prohibits financial institutions doing business with the state from discriminating against firearm entities or firearm trade associations based on their involvement in the lawful commerce of firearms, ammunition, or firearm accessories. The bill defines key terms such as "firearm entity" (which includes manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and shooting ranges), "firearm trade association" (a non-profit organization with multiple firearm entities as members), and "discriminate" (which includes refusing services, terminating business relationships, or refraining from continuing existing relationships solely because of the entity's status). Governmental entities are prohibited from entering into contracts with financial institutions that discriminate against firearm entities, with exceptions for sole-source providers or when a financial institution has a legitimate business reason for its actions. The bill provides civil remedies for individuals who are injured by violations, allowing them to sue for damages, attorney fees, and injunctive relief, and empowers the Attorney General to take legal action and request the state to terminate business relationships with offending financial institutions. The law does not apply to institutions with written policies against discrimination or those making decisions based on specific financial or regulatory considerations, and any civil actions must be commenced within two years of discovering the violation.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=3342&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill