Bill > HB4586

This bill prohibits governmental entities and spending units of West Virginia from purchasing electric vehicles or their components if they were manufactured using forced labor, which is defined as work obtained through force, fraud, coercion, or as a result of oppressive child labor, particularly noting concerns about components made in China's Xinjiang region and cobalt mined by children in the Democratic Republic of Congo. To ensure compliance, any contract for electric vehicles must include a sworn certification from the manufacturer stating that no forced or oppressive child labor was used in the production of the vehicle, its components, or the sourcing of its materials, and that the manufacturer consents to the state's jurisdiction. The bill outlines remedies and penalties for violations, including civil penalties for manufacturers and sellers, and fines for governmental entities, their employees, and board members who knowingly violate the provisions, with enforcement also allowed by citizens. This section will take effect and apply to contracts entered into, amended, or renewed after July 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4586&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill