HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 15

(By Delegates Pack, Howell, Azinger, Bibby, Cadle, Hansen, Hott, Jeffries D., Jeffries J., Martin C., Paynter, Phillips, Porterfield, Pyles, Staggers, Sypolt, Tomblin, Walker, and Worrell)

[Originating in the Committee on Government Organization, January 18, 2019 ]

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the impact of business regulations and economic development incentives to recruit and retain small business in West Virginia.

Whereas, The Legislature is committed to ensuring business regulations are fair and not overly burdensome; and

Whereas, The Legislature is committed to providing reasonable incentives to startup and existing small businesses; and

Whereas, Small businesses play a vital role in the economy in West Virginia, including in underserved communities where there are few options for employment and limited access to various services; and

Whereas, It is important to periodically study the impact of business regulations between large businesses and small businesses by examining regulatory burdens, economic incentives, insurance, and other requirements to ensure appropriate regulations protect the public while providing businesses the incentives and freedoms necessary to succeed and locate in West Virginia; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

That the Legislature hereby requests the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the impact of business regulations and economic development incentives to recruit and retain small businesses in West Virginia; and, be it 

Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the Regular Session of the Legislature 2020, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate any recommendations; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Department of Commerce, the Development Office, the Tax Department, and the State Auditor shall cooperate with the Legislature to obtain the necessary research for this study; and, be it

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