The proposed bill aims to establish the Southern Coalfield Resiliency and Revitalization Program in West Virginia, specifically targeting Boone, Logan, McDowell, Mingo, and Wyoming counties. This program is designed to address the economic challenges faced by these areas due to the decline of the coal industry, exacerbated by federal regulations. The bill outlines the creation of a Revitalization Council, which will coordinate efforts among state government, educational institutions, and private sectors to provide technical, agricultural, and economic assistance. The program is set to last for five years and will focus on inventorying existing resources, developing strategies to stimulate economic activity, and facilitating economic development incentives for businesses in the region.

Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of the Revitalization Council, which will consist of representatives from various state departments and local commissions, and the requirement for annual reporting to the Governor and the Joint Committee on Government and Finance. The council will also work with contributing partners to enhance technical assistance and economic development efforts. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of leveraging West Virginia's natural resources and industries to support economic growth, while also providing education on available economic development assistance to businesses interested in investing in the Southern Coalfield area.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5B-2-22
Committee Substitute: 5B-2R-1, 5B-2R-2, 5B-2R-3, 5B-2R-4, 5B-2R-5, 5B-2R-6, 5B-2R-7, 5B-2R-8, 5B-2R-9, 5B-2R-10
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 5B-2R-1, 5B-2R-2, 5B-2R-3, 5B-2R-4, 5B-2R-5, 5B-2R-6, 5B-2R-7, 5B-2R-8, 5B-2R-9, 5B-2R-10