Technology (Rural Communities)

HB 5634, the Last-Mile Broadband for Coalfield Counties Act, aims to expand high-speed internet access in specific West Virginia counties historically tied to coal mining. It directly affects residents and institutions in "coalfield counties" (defined as areas with historical or current economic ties to coal mining) by prioritizing broadband deployment to schools, emergency services, and unserved communities. The bill requires projects to verify service availability and speed through testing, with preference given to regional efforts involving local governments. It establishes a formal framework for broadband expansion but does not specify funding sources or timelines.

HB 5668 establishes the Central West Virginia Economic Development and Rural Revitalization Program to address economic challenges in eight specific counties: Webster, Clay, Braxton, Roane, Calhoun, Wirt, Lewis, and Gilmer. The bill creates a state program within the Department of Commerce that provides grants, loans, and technical assistance for projects like business development, infrastructure improvements, broadband expansion, and tourism initiatives. It also introduces a 25% tax credit for businesses making qualified investments in the region that create or retain full-time jobs. Projects must be located in the designated counties and prioritize job creation, private funding leverage, and support for economically distressed communities.