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Bill

HB 5165

To create the West Virginia Rural Property Safety and Clean Land Act.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Holstein and 4 co-sponsors

West Virginia bill proposes rural property environmental and safety standards, with implementation details pending committee review.

To House Energy and Public Works
#publicsafety
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Bill Summary · HB 5165

Legislative bill overview

HB 5165, the West Virginia Rural Property Safety and Clean Land Act, addresses environmental and safety issues on rural properties in West Virginia. The bill was recently introduced and referred to the House Energy and Public Works Committee for initial review. Specific provisions have not yet been publicly detailed in available records.

Why is this important

Rural properties often face unique challenges including abandoned sites, environmental contamination, and infrastructure maintenance that can affect public health and property values. Legislative action in this area could clarify responsibilities for landowners, establish cleanup standards, or provide funding mechanisms for remediation efforts across West Virginia's rural areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden on landowners: Rural property owners may resist requirements that impose compliance costs or restrict land use without adequate financial assistance or exemptions for small landholders
  • Funding and enforcement mechanisms: Unclear whether the state will provide resources for cleanup projects or whether costs fall entirely on private owners, potentially creating implementation challenges
  • Definition of "clean land" standards: Disagreement may arise over what constitutes acceptable environmental conditions and whether standards vary by property type or prior industrial use

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

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