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HB 2177

Relating to the use of American materials

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Evan Worrell

House Bill 2177 requires public construction projects in West Virginia to use American-made materials, boosting local manufacturing and job creation while ensuring taxpayer dollars support the U.S. economy.

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Bill Summary · HB 2177

Summary of House Bill 2177

Bill Number: HB 2177
Title: Relating to the use of American materials
Status: To House Government Administration
Introduced: January 29, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Finance and Administration

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2177 aims to mandate that certain materials used in public construction projects in West Virginia be manufactured in the United States. This legislation is designed to promote domestic manufacturing and ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent on American-made products, thereby supporting local economies and job creation.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new section to the Code of West Virginia, specifically §5A-3-64, which includes the following key provisions:

  1. Requirement for American-Made Materials:

    • All contracts for the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, improvement, or maintenance of public buildings or public works must stipulate that iron, steel, and manufactured goods used in the project are made in the United States.

  2. Exceptions:

    • The requirement may be waived if:
      • It is deemed inconsistent with the public interest.
      • The materials are not available in sufficient quantities or satisfactory quality in the U.S.
      • The inclusion of domestic materials would increase project costs by more than 25%.

  3. Waiver Process:

    • Public agencies must provide notice and an opportunity for public comment on waiver requests at least 30 days prior to making a decision.
    • The Secretary of Administration is responsible for approving waivers and must publish a justification for any waivers granted.

  4. Penalties for Misrepresentation:

    • Individuals found to have intentionally misrepresented the origin of materials (e.g., labeling non-U.S. products as "Made in America") will be ineligible for state contracts.

  5. Compliance with International Agreements:

    • The bill ensures that its provisions align with the state's obligations under applicable international procurement agreements.

  6. Definitions:

    • The bill provides definitions for key terms such as "public agency," "manufactured," and "public buildings and public works."

Impact

This legislation will primarily affect public agencies in West Virginia, including state departments, agencies, and local governments involved in construction projects. By requiring the use of American-made materials, the bill aims to enhance local manufacturing and create jobs within the state. However, it also introduces a regulatory framework that public agencies must navigate when considering materials for public works.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 29, 2025: Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Tony M. McCombie.
  • February 4, 2025: First Reading and referred to the Rules Committee.
  • February 12, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the Government Organization Committee, then to Finance.
  • March 4, 2025: Assigned to the Executive Committee.
  • March 12, 2025: Passed in the Executive Committee with a vote of 012-000-000.
  • March 27, 2025: Held on the Calendar Order for Second Reading.
  • May 31, 2025: Rule 19(a) re-referred to the Rules Committee.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of House Bill 2177, detailing its purpose, key provisions, potential impacts, and legislative timeline.

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

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