The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding three new sections to establish the Robert C. Byrd Corridor H Highway Authority, which continues the authority created by previous legislation in 1997. The new sections incorporate the original provisions of the 1997 act and expand the authority's powers and duties. These additional powers include setting tactical goals based on community input, fostering public-private partnerships, acquiring and managing property, and developing economic and tourism asset portfolios. The authority is also empowered to contract for legal services and accept grants, loans, and gifts to support its initiatives.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that the Robert C. Byrd Corridor H Highway Authority submit an annual report to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance by December 1 each year. This report will detail the authority's activities over the past year, including projects undertaken and partnerships formed, as well as any legislative or policy recommendations aimed at enhancing economic development along the corridor.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17-28-13, 17-28-14, 17-28-15, 17-28-16
Committee Substitute: 5B-12-1, 5B-12-2, 5B-12-3