The bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 20-3-4a, which grants the Director of the Division of Forestry and the Director of the Division of Natural Resources the authority to contract for the management of state-owned and -leased forests and wooded lands specifically for the purpose of preventing forest fires. The bill outlines the procedures and requirements for entering into these land management contracts, including a competitive bidding process where contracts are awarded to the highest responsible bidder with relevant experience. Additionally, it stipulates that proceeds from these contracts will be paid to the State Treasurer and credited to the appropriate division for specific uses.

Furthermore, the bill allows for exceptions to the competitive bidding process, permitting either director to directly award a contract with the written approval of the Secretary of the Department of Commerce when it is deemed necessary for an economic development project. This provision ensures that contracts are based on market value, thereby facilitating timely responses to economic development needs while still maintaining oversight and accountability in the management of state forest lands.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 20-3-4a