SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 60

(By Senators Maynard, Beach, Cline, Karnes, Rucker, Smith, Stollings, and Sypolt)

[Originating in the Committee on Natural Resources; Reported on March 8, 2018]

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance to study requiring the Division of Natural Resources and other state agencies to use nonemployee workforce to perform certain improvements related to the conservation and development of natural resources in rural lands owned by state and local governments.

Whereas, Many unemployed West Virginians are willing and able to perform manual labor and have a desire to do so; and

Whereas, Such West Virginians could benefit from a program that provided shelter, clothing, and food, together with a small stipend; and

Whereas, Participation in such a program could lead to improved physical condition, heightened morale, and increased employability for participants therein; and

Whereas, Such a program could also lead to a greater public awareness and appreciation of the outdoors and the state’s natural resources, and the continued need for a carefully planned, comprehensive state program for the protection and development of natural resources; and

Whereas, Such a program could be of considerable benefit in planting trees, constructing and/or maintaining trails, lodges, and related facilities, as well as upgrading state parks and public roadways in remote areas; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby directed to study requiring the Division of Natural Resources and other state agencies to use nonemployee workforce to perform certain improvements related to the conservation and development of natural resources in rural lands owned by state and local governments; and, be it

Further Resolved, That Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the feasibility of developing a program whereby food, shelter, and a stipend could be provided to West Virginia citizens performing certain improvements related to the conservation and development of natural resources in rural lands owned by state and local governments, and requiring the Division of Natural Resources, and other state agencies as appropriate, to utilize participation in such programs when making such improvements; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the study include potential methods and sources to fund such program; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2019, on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations, together with any drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendation; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct a study, prepare a report, and to draft necessary legislation be paid for from legislative appropriation to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.