The proposed bill aims to establish the Sound Science in Regulations Act within the Code of West Virginia, specifically by adding a new section, 29A-3-21. This legislation mandates that state agencies cannot propose or finalize any regulatory actions related to drinking water, air quality, hazardous substances, or waste management unless such actions are grounded in the best available science. The bill defines "best available science" as reliable and unbiased scientific information that maximizes quality and integrity, and it outlines specific criteria for studies to be considered valid, including independent verification and publication in refereed journals.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that its provisions will only apply to regulatory actions adopted after the effective date of the statute and that are either more stringent than federal regulations or enacted in the absence of federal action. Importantly, it specifies that existing regulatory actions, those in compliance with federal agency requirements, and actions that mirror federal regulations will not be affected by this new law. Overall, the bill seeks to ensure that state regulatory actions are scientifically sound and based on robust evidence.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 29A-3-21