West Virginia 2025 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB2648

Introduced
2/20/25  

Caption

Establishing certain tenant protections and landlord notice requirements at rental properties

Impact

The anticipated impact of HB 2648 includes the centralization of regulatory authority, which would limit the ability of local governments to enforce stricter environmental standards than those set by the state. Supporters believe this will reduce confusion and regulatory burdens for businesses, ultimately promoting economic growth and investment, particularly in industries that rely heavily on streamlined compliance procedures. However, critics express concern that the bill undermines local efforts to address unique environmental challenges in their communities, potentially leading to weaker overall protections for air and water quality.

Summary

House Bill 2648 aims to strengthen state authority over environmental regulations, specifically addressing issues related to pollutant discharges into state waters. This bill represents a significant shift in how environmental protections may be implemented, moving towards a more standardized set of regulations that local governments must follow. Proponents of the bill argue that this approach will simplify compliance for businesses that operate across multiple jurisdictions, which often face conflicting rules regarding environmental standards. By reducing variability in local regulations, the bill seeks to create a more business-friendly environment while still maintaining essential protections for state waterways.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB 2648 is mixed. Supporters, generally from business and industry sectors, view the bill as a necessary step toward reducing regulatory complexity and competition among local laws. They argue that a cohesive regulatory framework will facilitate business operations and enhance economic development opportunities. Conversely, environmental advocacy groups and some local leaders argue that the bill represents an overreach of state power, which could adversely affect communities' abilities to protect their natural resources and manage pollution more effectively.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise from concerns about local autonomy. Critics fear that centralizing control over environmental regulations could result in a 'one-size-fits-all' approach that fails to recognize the distinct ecological and community-specific challenges faced by different areas of the state. This debate encapsulates a broader tension between state-level regulatory authority and local governance, particularly on issues that directly impact community health and environmental sustainability.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HB3426

Establishing certain tenant protections and landlord notice requirements at rental properties

WV HB4347

Establishing certain tenant protections and landlord notice requirements at rental properties

WV HB5164

Relating to the land use, manufacture, installation, and safety certification of Fabricated Self-contained Expandable Box Built Permanent Homes

WV HB3291

Relating generally to landlords and tenants

WV HB4660

Relating generally to landlords and tenants

WV SB301

Clarifying that tenancy includes persons who reside in sober living home

WV SB8

Clarifying that tenancy includes persons who reside in sober living home

WV SB455

Modifying certain used car restrictions

WV HB5333

Relating to landlord and tenant

WV HB2305

Relating to titling and registration of foreign market vehicles

Similar Bills

DE SB310

An Act To Amend Title 25 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Manufactured Home Title Transfers.

OR HB2634

Relating to rental agreements for recreational vehicle spaces.

DE SB56

An Act To Amend Title 25 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Manufactured Home Title Transfers.

OR HB3371

Relating to lienholders of a residential tenant's abandoned property.

OR SB1069

Relating to residential tenancies.

VA HB2122

Manufactured Home Lot Rental Act; landlord obligations.

IA SSB3130

A bill for an act relating to the provision of water service for manufactured home communities.

IA SSB1011

A bill for an act relating to the provision of water service for manufactured home communities.