This bill proposes to repeal existing air pollution control provisions in the West Virginia Code and replace them with the "Fueling Modern Life Act." The new legislation emphasizes the importance of carbon dioxide as a vital nutrient for life on Earth, asserting that it should not be classified as a pollutant. The bill outlines several legislative findings that highlight the benefits of carbon dioxide, including its role in agricultural productivity, plant resilience, and overall ecological health.

Additionally, the bill establishes a state policy that explicitly states carbon dioxide shall not be treated as a pollutant, prohibits the pursuit of measures aimed at reducing carbon dioxide emissions, and encourages the use of carbon-based fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. The proposed changes reflect a significant shift in the state's approach to environmental policy, focusing on the perceived benefits of carbon dioxide rather than traditional air quality control measures.

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