The proposed bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new section, 5A-1-10A, which prohibits state governmental entities from entering into contracts for the procurement of electric vehicles that may have been manufactured, in whole or in part, using forced labor or oppressive child labor. The bill outlines specific legislative findings that highlight the prevalence of forced labor in the production of electric vehicle components, particularly in regions like Xinjiang, China, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring that taxpayer dollars are not used to support such unethical practices.

To enforce this prohibition, the bill requires manufacturers to provide a sworn certification affirming that no forced or oppressive child labor was involved in the production of the electric vehicles or their components. It also establishes remedies and penalties for violations, including civil penalties for false certifications and personal fines for employees and board members who authorize non-compliant purchases. The bill is set to take effect for all electric vehicle procurement contracts entered into, amended, or renewed after July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5A-1-10