West Virginia 2022 Regular Session

West Virginia Senate Bill SB730

Introduced
2/28/22  
Report Pass
2/28/22  
Engrossed
3/2/22  
Refer
3/3/22  

Caption

Divesting state-managed funds from companies engaged with Russia or Russian energy

Impact

The passage of SB 730 would lead to significant changes in how state-managed funds are invested. Specifically, it would empower public investment entities, such as state departments and boards, to divest from companies that either directly interface with the Russian government or are significantly involved in oil and gas production within Russia. This divestment is designed not to breach fiduciary obligations or prudent investment principles, offering protection to public officials and employees who make these decisions. Therefore, this legislation not only has implications for state funds but also shapes the landscape of corporate involvement in regions of geopolitical conflict.

Summary

Senate Bill 730 aims to amend the Code of West Virginia to authorize divestment of state-managed funds from companies involved in activities related to Russia, particularly in the energy sector. This legislation arises in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine that began on February 24, 2022. The bill reflects the West Virginia Legislature's agreement with the U.S. government's sanctions against Russia and seeks to align state investment policies with these broader economic measures. By enabling state investment entities to sever ties with Russia-restricted companies, the bill emphasizes West Virginia's commitment to support Ukraine's sovereignty and global security.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 730 appeared largely supportive among lawmakers, reflecting a broader consensus regarding the need for action in response to international events affecting national security. The support for the bill was unanimous during votes, demonstrating a legislative commitment to align with U.S. foreign policy actions. However, the bill also raised discussions about the implications for certain local industries and how divesting from companies could affect future investments and economic partnerships, showcasing a need for balance between ethical considerations and economic interests.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding SB 730 is the concept of fiduciary duty, as some stakeholders may argue that divesting from potentially lucrative investments involving Russia could conflict with a public investment entity’s responsibility to maximize returns for beneficiaries. Additionally, there were discussions regarding the thresholds that define a 'Russia-restricted company.' The bill's definitions set specific criteria for divestment based on revenue and operational involvement with the Russian government, which might lead to debates on the scope of the legislation and its enforcement in practice.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV SJR189

Ukraine; Russian invasion.

WV A3430

Prohibits State pension fund investment in certain companies with ties to Russian Federation and prohibits State contracts if invested in Russian Federation.

WV HB1368

Deter PRC Support to the Russian War Effort Act

WV SB1328

Prohibited investments and contracts: Russia and Belarus.

WV HR274

Calling on major United States companies still operating in the Russian Federation to reconsider their continued presence given Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

WV HC77

Russian invasion of Ukraine; condemn.

WV SB1005

State Retirement and Pension System - Divestment From Russia

WV HCR122

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION urging the state-administered retirement systems to evaluate their portfolios for investments in Russian-based companies, to report those findings on the system's website, and to divest from Russian-based investments in a manner consistent with their fiduciary duty.

WV SB4625

Designating the Russian Federation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism Act

WV HB1482

State Retirement and Pension System - Divestment From Russia

Similar Bills

WV HB3084

Providing commercial discrimination of producers of coal, gas, oil, carbon-based energy, and other products in the State of West Virginia

WV HB3157

Relating to clarifying the duties, functions, prohibitions and restrictions applicable to the West Virginia Fusion Center

WV HB3562

Relating to the West Virginia Fusion Center

WV SB262

Relating generally to financial institutions engaged in boycotts of energy companies

WV HB4483

Relating to establishing term limits to certain real property interests and registration requirements associated with carbon offset agreements

WV HB4758

Creation of the Joint Oversight Committee on the Fusion Center

WV SB107

Relating to real property, tax, and registration requirements associated with carbon offset agreements

VA HB1260

Guardianship; procedures for restriction of communication, visitation, or interaction.