This bill proposes significant amendments to the existing West Virginia Advanced Energy and Economic Corridor Authority, renaming it the King Coal Highway Economic Advisory Board. The legislation modifies the legislative findings to emphasize the economic damages faced by counties along the King Coal Highway due to harmful federal environmental policies affecting the coal industry. It aims to assist in the recovery of these regional economies by providing guidance to local governments and businesses, while also fostering partnerships to leverage natural resources and support economic growth.

Additionally, the bill reduces the membership of the advisory board from 15 to 11 members and alters the requirements for membership. The new structure includes representatives from county commissions and mandates the appointment of members with specific executive experience in industries such as coal mining, oil and gas, and manufacturing. The powers and duties of the advisory board are also updated to focus on setting tactical goals, fostering partnerships, and seeking guidance for funding opportunities, while ensuring that the board operates within a dedicated fund established by participating county commissions. The advisory board is required to submit an annual report detailing its activities and recommendations for economic development along the King Coal Highway.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5B-11-1, 5B-11-2, 5B-11-3, 5B-11-4