The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 11-8-5a, which classifies forestry equipment as Class I property. This classification recognizes forestry as an essential component of agriculture within the state's economy. The bill defines forestry equipment to include various machinery used in the harvesting, processing, or transportation of forest products, such as skidders, feller-bunchers, and loaders, as well as trailers and other machinery primarily used in forestry operations.

Additionally, the bill exempts the sale of forestry equipment from the consumers sales and service tax, further supporting the forestry industry in West Virginia. The definition of agriculture is expanded to explicitly include forestry, covering the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of forest products. The provisions of this section are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 11-8-5a
Committee Substitute: 11-8-5a, 11-15-8e
Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute: 11-8-5a