Clarifying the declaration of a State of Preparedness by executive orders of the Governor or by concurrent resolution of the Legislature.

HB 3423 simplifies West Virginia's emergency declaration process by eliminating the current two-class system (Class I and Class II) for "state of preparedness" and establishing a single level, similar to the existing single level for a state of emergency. The bill requires that any declaration - whether by the Governor via executive order or the Legislature via concurrent resolution - include a description of circumstances and affected area, with Governor-proclaimed states expiring after 30 days unless extended by the Legislature. It also sets a 90-day combined limit for a state of emergency following a state of preparedness, unless extended under specific procedures. This change aims to clarify and streamline emergency declaration rules for the Governor, Legislature, and emergency management agencies.