The proposed bill aims to establish the Southern Coalfield Resiliency and Revitalization Program, which will operate for five years to address the economic challenges faced by Boone, Logan, McDowell, Mingo, and Wyoming counties due to the decline of the coal industry. The bill outlines the creation of a revitalization council, coordinated by the Development Office, which will include representatives from various state departments, local county commissions, and educational institutions. This council will be responsible for identifying existing state resources, developing strategies to stimulate economic activity, and providing technical assistance to support community revitalization efforts in the Southern Coalfield area.

Additionally, the bill mandates the revitalization council to report annually to the Governor and the Legislature on the progress of the program and its impact on the targeted counties. It also authorizes the Development Office to facilitate economic development incentives for businesses investing in these areas, including the provision of state property and equipment at reduced costs. The overarching goal of the program is to leverage collaboration among state government, educational institutions, and private sectors to revitalize the Southern Coalfield communities and foster a sustainable economic future.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5B-2-22