Natural Resources and the Public Estate Amendment

HJR 16 proposes adding Section 23 to West Virginia's Constitution, establishing a fundamental right to a clean and healthy environment - including pure water, clean air, healthy soils, a safe climate, and preserved natural resources. It designates the state as a trustee responsible for conserving, protecting, and maintaining these resources for all current and future residents, including children. The amendment would be self-executing (enforceable without additional laws) and requires voter approval at the 2026 general election. It directly affects all West Virginians by embedding environmental protections into the state's foundational law.