Recognizing the importance of sustained economic development to the prosperity of West Virginia

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Anders and 35 co-sponsors

Expanding and modernizing natural gas pipelines in West Virginia to improve energy access, reliability, and economic development statewide.

To House Rules

#resolutions

Summary of Bill HR 6 (2026, West Virginia)

Purpose and intent

The resolution recognizes the importance of sustained economic development and job creation for West Virginia’s long-term prosperity.

It emphasizes the role of reliable energy infrastructure, particularly natural gas pipelines, in supporting industrial, commercial, and workforce growth.

The document advocates for expanding and modernizing natural gas transmission capacity within the state to improve energy access, reliability, and economic development.

Key provisions and changes

Statewide focus: Encourages development, expansion, and modernization of natural gas pipelines and related infrastructure to support industrial, commercial, and economic development across West Virginia.

Intra-Panhandle pipeline: Specifically calls for a large intra-Panhandle natural gas pipeline to meet current demand and accommodate projected residential, commercial, and industrial growth in the Eastern Panhandle.

Cross-state infrastructure emphasis: Supports new or expanding pipeline projects that connect western gas fields to the Eastern Panhandle, aiming to improve in-state access to locally produced natural gas.

Industry alignment: Signals a goal to work with industry to align infrastructure planning with market demand and regional energy needs, reducing risk, costs, and promoting reliable local energy delivery.

Economic impact framing: Argues that enhanced transmission capacity can attract industrial investment, expand manufacturing, create jobs, and provide affordable energy to residents by leveraging West Virginia’s gas resources.

Stakeholder engagement: Acknowledges collaboration with energy industry associations and policymakers to advance infrastructure and energy reliability.

Who/what would be affected

Geographically: Primarily West Virginia, with a focus on connecting western gas fields to the Eastern Panhandle.

Economic impact: Potentially broader industrial development, manufacturing growth, and job creation across the state due to improved energy infrastructure.

Energy sector: Interest and involvement from natural gas producers, pipeline operators, and energy trade groups (e.g., West Virginia Oil and Natural Gas Association, Interstate Natural Gas Association of America, American Gas Association, Natural Gas Supply Association, American Petroleum Institute) as indicated by referenced outreach.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Legislative path: Introduced in the House on February 3, 2026; referred to the Committee on Energy and Public Works, then to Rules.

Amendments: A committee substitute was adopted (as indicated by action history) before proceeding in the Rules committee stage.

Next steps: If advanced, the resolution would move through standard House consideration and potential adoption, with transmission of copies to the Governor, state and federal officials, and relevant industry groups.

Notes

This is a non-binding House Resolution emphasizing policy goals rather than creating enforceable mandates or funding mechanisms.

The bill frames energy infrastructure expansion as a tool for economic development and regional competitiveness, particularly by enabling more reliable and affordable access to West Virginia-produced natural gas.