The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to support small businesses, particularly home-based enterprises, through the establishment of the Small Business Protection Act. It exempts independent contractors and sole proprietors from needing a business license if their annual gross revenue is below $2,500 and they do not have a permanent physical location within municipal limits. Additionally, the bill sets a threshold for annual gross revenue that allows businesses to be exempt from business and occupation taxes and privilege taxes, thereby facilitating the growth of home-based businesses while providing necessary definitions, permitted uses, and reasonable regulations for these enterprises.

Furthermore, the legislation addresses the regulatory challenges faced by small businesses, emphasizing the need for reforms that consider their unique circumstances. It mandates state agencies to evaluate the impact of regulations on small businesses and encourages alternative regulatory approaches that minimize economic burdens without compromising public health and safety. The bill also introduces a $30 business registration tax for annual business registration certificates, effective from July 1, 1999, and clarifies that a separate certificate is required for each fixed business location. Exemptions are provided for individuals with gross income of $4,000 or less, while those earning $10,000 or less may be exempt from the tax but still need to register. Penalties for failing to obtain a required registration certificate are also outlined, with specific exemptions for non-profit organizations and government entities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-40-1, 8-40-2, 8-40-3, 8-40-4, 8-40-5, 8-40-6
Committee Substitute: 8-40-1, 8-40-2, 8-40-3, 8-40-4, 8-40-5, 8-40-6
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 8-40-1, 8-40-2, 8-40-3, 8-40-4, 8-40-5, 8-40-6
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 8-40-1, 8-40-2, 8-40-3, 8-40-4, 8-40-5, 8-41-1, 8-41-2, 8-13-4, 8-13-5, 11-12-3