SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 64

(By Senators Browning, Klempa, Prezioso, Wells, Stollings, Snyder, Williams, K. Facemyer, Sypolt and Hall)

[Originating in the Committee on Economic Development]

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study potential legislation that would encourage the development of small business throughout the state.

    Whereas, Small businesses are an integral part of the West Virginia economy; and

    Whereas, Ninety-seven percent of the state’s companies are small businesses; and

    Whereas, Small businesses employ more than 300,000 West Virginians; and

    Whereas, The West Virginia Small Business Development Center has created 3,777 jobs in this state from October 2009 to March 2011 which has resulted in investment in this state of $24,441,823; and 

    Whereas, Small businesses that develop and grow in West Virginia are likely to remain in West Virginia if such small businesses are able to reach their full potential; and

    Whereas, Fostering an environment where small businesses can grow and thrive is in the best interest of West Virginia; and

    Whereas, West Virginia is in dire need of legislation aimed at encouraging the growth of small businesses throughout the state; and

    Whereas, A careful review of potential incentives and current regulations is necessary in order to determine the measures necessary to develop a better environment for small businesses; therefore, be it

    Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

    That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study potential legislation that would encourage the development of small business throughout the state; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That it is necessary for any committee appointed to study such legislation be authorized to meet more than once a month and be provided with adequate staff in order to accomplish its goals; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the Legislature, on the first day of the regular session, 2012, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations together with drafts of any legislation to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

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