Bill > SB221

This bill proposes to rename the West Virginia Advanced Energy and Economic Corridor Authority to the King Coal Highway Economic Advisory Board, reflecting a shift in focus and legislative findings that attribute economic hardship in the counties along the King Coal Highway to federal environmental policies impacting coal-fired power generation. The bill reduces the advisory board's membership from 13 to 11 original members, with specific representatives from county commissions and additional members to be appointed later with expertise in industries like coal mining, oil and gas, utilities, manufacturing, and agriculture, aiming to foster economic recovery and growth by reducing regulatory obstacles and leveraging natural resources. The advisory board's powers and duties are modified to emphasize creating and coordinating Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for multi-county projects, discussing potential legislation to improve the business environment, identifying economic opportunities, and coordinating applications for state and federal loans and grants for participating counties, while also seeking advice from various entities. Finally, the bill requires the advisory board to report annually to the Legislature on its activities and any recommended legislative or policy actions for economic development along the King Coal Highway.

Business and Industry

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=221&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill