This bill proposes the addition of a new article to the Code of West Virginia, designating landowners who own 1,000 or more acres as "institutional landowners" (ILs). It outlines that all landowners meeting this threshold, including individuals, government entities, and non-governmental organizations, will be classified as ILs, with the exception of those owning land for public or semi-public facilities like schools and parks.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that the Secretary of State create a list of these institutional landowners and require them to submit various reports detailing their land use, economic activities, market values, and tax implications. The Secretary of State is also tasked with providing an annual report to the Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, summarizing data on land use trends, economic patterns, and the impact of institutional landownership on rural communities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 31-22-1, 31-22-2