West Virginia First Energy Act

SB 420's goals are to: 1) Restore electric rate stability by prioritizing in-state coal and natural-gas generation. 2) Preserve employment and investment in West Virginia’s coal and natural-gas industries. 3) Coordinate with the Electric Grid Stabilization and Security Fund to maintain reliable baseload and mid-load generation.

Sponsors: Mike Azinger

ISSUES: Climate, Development, Pure Water

CWV Position: Opposes

Position Statement: CWV opposes SB 420 because it prioritizes fossil fuel–based energy development over clean, renewable solutions, reinforcing pollution-heavy systems that harm air and water quality and increase climate risk. The bill steers state energy policy away from diversification, efficiency, and innovation, while offering preferential treatment to incumbent energy sources rather than supporting a resilient, forward-looking energy economy. At a time when West Virginia communities face growing health, environmental, and flood risks tied to climate change, this legislation moves the state in the wrong direction.

Status: Introduced on 1/15/26; referred to Energy, Industry, and Mining Committee 1/15/26. Passed Senate on 3/4/26; referred to House Energy and Public Works Committee on 3/5/26.