West Virginia 2023 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB2095

Introduced
1/11/23  

Caption

Relating to wild and wonderful restoration Task Force

Impact

If passed, HB2095 would modify the existing Code of West Virginia, establishing a new framework for addressing environmental degradation. By creating this corporation, the bill would formalize roles and responsibilities related to land restoration and environmental health, which could lead to more structured and impactful restoration efforts across the state. Additionally, it would enable the Department of Environmental Protection to provide necessary support and resources for these initiatives, potentially improving the efficiency and effectiveness of restoration projects.

Summary

House Bill 2095 aims to establish a quasi-public corporation known as the Wild and Wonderful Restoration Task Force Corporation within the state of West Virginia. The primary purpose of this organization will be to restore damaged lands in the state to their original condition. The proposed programs include initiatives such as tree planting, removal of invasive species, roadside wildflower restoration, and ensuring clean waterways, along with activities like well testing. This legislation reflects a growing recognition of the importance of environmental restoration and aims to foster community involvement in these efforts.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2095 appears largely positive, especially among environmental advocacy groups and stakeholders interested in land preservation and ecological restoration. Supporters may appreciate the proactive approach to addressing environmental issues and the incorporation of volunteer efforts to engage the community. However, there may be some concerns regarding funding, resources, and long-term sustainability of the proposed programs, particularly how they will be managed and coordinated at the state level.

Contention

There may be points of contention related to the level of state control versus local governance in implementing the restoration programs. Critics might worry about the adequacy of funding to support the corporation and its programs or whether the proposed initiatives will effectively address the complexities of land restoration. Furthermore, while the bill seeks to mobilize community volunteers, its reliance on volunteer efforts may raise questions about the capacity to achieve significant restoration outcomes without a dedicated workforce.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HB4687

Relating to wild and wonderful restoration Task Force

WV A4180

Eliminates various boards, commissions, committees, councils, and task forces created by law.

WV SB675

Prescribed grazing: local assistance grant program: Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force.

WV HB4437

Reentry Task Force

WV HB875

Creates the La. Shrimp Task Force within the Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries

WV HB916

Renames the state entities responsible for coastal protection and restoration

WV HB2441

Reentry Task Force

WV HB4240

Reentry Task Force

WV HB3278

Create Intergenerational Poverty Task Force

WV AB2479

Forest restoration and protection: wildfire prevention.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.