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Bill

HB 2285

Relating to authorizing the Department of Agriculture to promulgate a legislative rule relating to licensing and other fees

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Smith

House Bill 2285 empowers West Virginia's Agriculture Department to set licensing rules and fees, aiming to streamline processes for agricultural producers and businesses.

To House Government Organization
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Bill Summary · HB 2285

Summary of House Bill 2285

Bill Number: HB 2285
Title: Relating to authorizing the Department of Agriculture to promulgate a legislative rule relating to licensing and other fees
Status: To House Government Organization
Introduced: February 12, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Legislature--Rule Making

Purpose of the Bill

House Bill 2285 aims to authorize the West Virginia Department of Agriculture to create and implement a legislative rule concerning licensing and associated fees. This legislative action is intended to streamline the regulatory framework governing agricultural practices and ensure that the Department can effectively manage its licensing processes.

Key Provisions

  • Authorization of Rulemaking: The bill specifically authorizes the Department of Agriculture to promulgate a legislative rule that relates to licensing and other fees. This rule is referenced as "61 CSR 18" and was filed in the State Register on July 25, 2024.

  • Amendment of Existing Code: The bill amends and reenacts §64-9-1 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, which pertains to the authority of various boards and agencies to establish legislative rules.

  • Reference to Existing Authority: The rulemaking authority is based on §19-1-4b of the West Virginia Code, which provides the legal framework for the Department's regulatory powers.

Impact of the Bill

  • Affected Parties: The primary stakeholders affected by this bill include agricultural producers, businesses seeking licenses related to agriculture, and the Department of Agriculture itself. The implementation of this rule could lead to changes in the licensing process, potentially affecting the costs and requirements for obtaining necessary permits.

  • Regulatory Efficiency: By allowing the Department of Agriculture to set its own fees and licensing requirements, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency of agricultural regulation in West Virginia. This could lead to a more responsive regulatory environment that better meets the needs of the agricultural community.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • February 12, 2025: The bill was filed for introduction and referred to the House Committee on Government Organization.
    • February 12, 2025: The bill was introduced in the House.

Conclusion

House Bill 2285 represents a legislative effort to empower the West Virginia Department of Agriculture with the authority to establish rules regarding licensing and fees. This initiative is expected to improve the regulatory framework for agriculture in the state, benefiting both the Department and the agricultural community. The bill is currently under consideration by the House Government Organization Committee.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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