House Bill 3045 aims to establish the Farmer Protection Act in West Virginia, introducing new provisions to safeguard agricultural producers from discrimination in financial services based on their greenhouse gas emissions, fertilizer usage, or machinery type. The bill outlines legislative findings that highlight the challenges faced by farmers, particularly small-scale operators, in the context of increasing environmental regulations and pressures from ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) commitments. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining agricultural productivity and food security while addressing the potential negative impacts of stringent emissions targets on farmers' livelihoods.

The bill includes definitions of key terms related to agriculture financing and establishes a prohibition against financial institutions discriminating against agriculture producers based on their environmental practices. It creates a rebuttable presumption of discrimination if a financial institution has made any ESG commitments, allowing for enforcement by the Attorney General and the Commissioner of Agriculture. The Commissioner is granted authority to investigate violations, require reports, and conduct hearings, with the ability to impose civil penalties for non-compliance. The act is set to take effect upon passage, reinforcing the state's commitment to supporting its agricultural sector amidst evolving environmental standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 19-40-1, 19-40-2, 19-40-3, 19-40-4