CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Senator Patricia Rucker (R-Jefferson) and Delegate Tristan Leavitt (R-Kanawha) have announced plans to introduce the West Virginia Rulemaking Economic Impact Needs Study (REINS) Act, a bill aimed at ensuring state agencies fully assess the economic impact of proposed regulations before implementation.
The legislation seeks to provide greater transparency and equip lawmakers with critical financial data to make informed decisions that foster economic growth and protect private-sector interests.
Key Provisions of the REINS Act
- Economic Impact Assessments: Agencies must submit an economic impact statement for any proposed rule with an adverse financial effect exceeding $200,000 annually or $1 million over five years.
- Legislative Oversight: The Legislative Rule-Making Review Committee will evaluate proposed rules for compliance with economic impact requirements and may also request assessments on emergency regulations.
- Transparency for Businesses: The bill mandates that agencies disclose how their rules affect economic growth, job creation, investment, and business competitiveness.
- Public Accessibility: Proposed regulations and legislative recommendations will continue to be available on the West Virginia Secretary of State’s website.
Lawmakers’ Vision for Economic Competitiveness
Senator Rucker, co-chair of the Legislative Rule-Making Review Committee, emphasized the importance of reducing regulatory burdens.
“Our goal is to expand freedom and opportunity for all West Virginians by getting the government out of their way,” she said.
Delegate Leavitt noted that agency rules directly impact West Virginians’ daily lives and the state’s economy.
“This bill supports Governor Morrisey’s plan to be competitive in an economic ‘backyard brawl’ with neighboring states and ensures West Virginians get the best government possible,” he said.
National Context
West Virginia already has one of the nation’s strongest rule-making review processes, established in 1976. The REINS Act follows similar models adopted by Kansas, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Florida since 2010, reinforcing West Virginia’s commitment to regulatory accountability.
The bill is expected to be debated in the upcoming legislative session, with supporters arguing it will help boost business confidence and streamline the regulatory environment in West Virginia.
