This bill proposes to amend and reenact Section 22-5-1 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, while repealing multiple sections related to air pollution control. The new legislation, titled the "Fueling Modern Life Act," aims to establish a state policy that recognizes carbon dioxide as a foundational nutrient essential for life on Earth. The bill outlines legislative findings that highlight the benefits of carbon dioxide, including its role in agricultural productivity and plant health, and asserts that it should not be treated as a pollutant.

Additionally, the bill states that West Virginia will not pursue any measures to reduce or eliminate carbon dioxide emissions, including "net-zero" targets, and will support the use of carbon-based fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. The existing provisions related to air pollution control, which include definitions, powers and duties of directors, and various permit requirements, will be repealed, reflecting a significant shift in the state's approach to environmental policy concerning carbon dioxide.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22-5-1, 22-5-2, 22-5-3, 22-5-4, 22-5-5, 22-5-6, 22-5-7, 22-5-8, 22-5-9, 22-5-10, 22-5-11, 22-5-11a, 22-5-11b, 22-5-11c, 22-5-12, 22-5-13, 22-5-14, 22-5-15, 22-5-16, 22-5-17, 22-5-18, 22-5-19, 22-5-20