The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to require the Secretary of the Department of Economic Development to establish a West Virginia Produced or Manufactured Program, which will serve as the official marketing initiative for products made in the state. This program aims to enhance the visibility and marketability of West Virginia products by setting participation requirements, categorizing producers and manufacturers, and creating a distinctive logo for these products. Additionally, the Secretary is tasked with proposing legislative rules to implement this program effectively.

In the amendments, the language regarding the utilization of resources from the Department of Commerce has been updated to replace "utilize" with "use," and the designation of exempt positions within the department has been clarified. The bill also specifies that the Department of Economic Development is exempt from certain provisions of the code, ensuring that it can operate more efficiently in its economic development efforts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5B-2-3
Committee Substitute: 5B-2-3