This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 5A-3-64, to the Code of West Virginia, mandating that contracts for the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, improvement, or maintenance of public buildings or public works include a provision requiring that iron, steel, and manufactured goods used in these projects be produced in the United States. The bill outlines specific exceptions to this requirement, allowing waivers if the executive head of a public agency determines that compliance would be inconsistent with the public interest, if the materials are not available in sufficient quantities or quality, or if using domestic materials would increase project costs by more than 25 percent.

Additionally, the bill establishes a process for public agencies to request waivers, which includes providing public notice and an opportunity for comment. If a waiver is granted by the Secretary of Administration, a detailed justification must be published. The bill also includes provisions for penalizing individuals who falsely label products as "Made in America" and defines key terms such as "public agency," "manufactured," and "public buildings and public works." Overall, the intent of the bill is to promote the use of American-made materials in public construction projects while ensuring transparency and accountability in the waiver process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5A-3-64