The proposed bill aims to establish the Sound Science in Regulations Act by adding a new section, 29A-3-21, to the Code of West Virginia. This legislation stipulates that state agencies are prohibited from proposing or finalizing any regulatory actions related to drinking water, air quality, hazardous substances, and waste handling unless such actions are grounded in the best available science. The bill defines "best available science" as reliable and unbiased scientific information that maximizes the quality and integrity of data, including studies that are independently verified and published in refereed journals.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that its provisions will only apply to regulatory actions adopted after the effective date of the statute 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, or those that mirror federal regulations will not be affected by this new law. This ensures that the act does not disrupt current regulatory frameworks while promoting a science-based approach to future regulations.

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