Creating Sound Science in Regulations Act

SB 599, the "Creating Sound Science in Regulations Act," requires West Virginia state agencies to base new environmental regulations on "best available science" before proposing or finalizing rules related to drinking water, air quality, hazardous waste, or chemical safety. It defines "best available science" as reliable, unbiased studies published in refereed journals with independent verification, excluding industry-funded research or non-peer-reviewed data. The law applies only to new state regulations stricter than federal standards or created without federal equivalents, exempting existing rules, federal compliance actions, and regulations mirroring federal standards. This bill directly affects state environmental agencies and their rulemaking processes for public health and environmental protection.