Environment

SB 648, titled the "Strategic and Critical Resources Act," defines specific minerals (like lithium, cobalt, uranium, and others vital for national security) and establishes statewide regulations for their extraction. It prevents local governments from restricting or regulating extraction activities or facility development outside urban areas, reserving this authority for the state and federal governments. The bill also prohibits foreign adversaries (as defined by federal law) from owning, controlling, or operating facilities related to these resources. It explicitly states that federal environmental and health laws remain fully applicable, and does not affect standard business licenses or taxes. This bill directly affects mining companies, local governments, and foreign entities seeking to develop these critical resources in West Virginia.

SB 420, the West Virginia First Energy Act, requires regulated utilities to maintain minimum operational standards for coal and natural-gas power plants. It mandates a 69% annual utilization rate for coal-fired facilities, a 30-day on-site coal inventory, and firm natural-gas supply contracts for gas plants. The bill prohibits retiring or reducing coal/gas capacity without Public Service Commission approval (unless an in-state replacement is available) and bans cost recovery for new wind or solar projects in utility rate bases. These provisions directly affect utilities operating in-state coal and natural-gas generation, aiming to preserve reliable, dispatchable power sources and limit reliance on intermittent renewables.