This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to officially create two new state parks: Jennings Randolph Lake State Park and Teter Creek Lake State Park. The bill includes legislative findings that highlight the significance of these areas as recreational, economic, and environmental resources, attracting visitors for various outdoor activities. Jennings Randolph Lake State Park will be located in Mineral County, while Teter Creek Lake State Park will be situated in Barbour County. The bill outlines the administration and management of these parks by the Division of Natural Resources, which will also have the authority to enter into cooperative agreements with various entities to ensure the parks' operation and maintenance.

Additionally, the bill provides the Division of Natural Resources with rule-making authority to develop recreational facilities, improve public access, and enhance tourism and economic growth in the surrounding regions. The effective date for the establishment of these parks is set for July 1, 2026. The bill also includes specific insertions into the existing law, such as the addition of the two new parks to the list of West Virginia state parks and the establishment of new sections dedicated to each park's legislative findings, creation, administration, and development authority.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 20-1-19, 20-5-25
Committee Substitute: 20-1-19, 20-5-25, 20-5-26