Bill > HB5039

This bill, titled the "Fueling Modern Life Act," proposes to replace existing air pollution control laws in West Virginia with new provisions that redefine the state's policy on carbon dioxide (CO2). The bill asserts that CO2 is a vital nutrient for all life, essential for plant growth, agricultural productivity, and drought resistance, and that current atmospheric levels are historically low. It argues that restricting CO2 emissions hinders economic activity and human progress. Therefore, the bill establishes a new state policy declaring that CO2 shall not be considered a pollutant or contaminant, and West Virginia will not pursue any targets for its reduction or elimination, including "net-zero" goals. Instead, the state will actively encourage and support the use of carbon-based fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas for electricity generation, transportation, and other uses necessary for modern life. This effectively repeals numerous previous sections of the air pollution control code that dealt with various aspects of pollution prevention, abatement, and control.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5039&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill