This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to change the certification requirements for managed timberland, shifting the renewal period from annually to every five years for tax assessment purposes. It grants the Division of Forestry the authority to establish guidelines for this certification process and mandates the creation of an online renewal system by October 1, 2023. Property owners will be required to certify in writing that their land qualifies as managed timberland and that they will adhere to an approved management plan. The online renewal process will simplify applications by including a question about any changes in the applicant's information from the previous year, with no fees for submitting the renewal form.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining high-quality forest land and provides incentives for private landowners to preserve their forested areas. It requires the Tax Commissioner and the Division of Forestry to report annually to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance on the managed timberland program's impact on state tax collections and the timber industry. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the efficiency of the managed timberland program while ensuring proper oversight and assessment of its economic effects.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 11-1C-10, 11-1C-11