SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 41

(By Senators Williams and Green)

[Originating in the Committee on Economic Development]

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the critical access need for emergency electric generators; the best methods to ensure that businesses, public services and citizens have access to such emergency electric generators; and the feasibility of a tax credit to offset the costs of purchasing such emergency electric generators.

    Whereas, Recent natural events, including the derecho of June 2012, have increased the awareness of and need for emergency electric generators in West Virginia; and

    Whereas, The rural and mountainous terrain of much of West Virginia slows the restoration of electric service following natural disasters and other natural events, further underscoring the importance of access to emergency electric generators; and

    Whereas, Future preparedness for potential natural disasters and emergencies requires increased access to emergency electric generators; and

    Whereas, Uninterrupted access to certain critical services and goods, including health care, water, food and fuel, during emergency situations is an essential element in ensuring the safety and well being of the citizens of West Virginia; and

    Whereas, The cost of purchasing an emergency electric generator can be very expensive, especially to small businesses and individual citizens; therefore, be it

    Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

    That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study the critical access need for emergency electric generators; the best methods to ensure that businesses, public services and citizens have access to such emergency electric generators; and the feasibility of a tax credit to offset the costs of purchasing such emergency electric generators; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security is requested to assist the Joint Committee on Government and Finance in its study of emergency electric generators; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2014, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.