HB 4968

This bill transfers regulatory authority over radioactive materials and radiation sources in West Virginia from various state agencies to the Department of Environmental Protection, positioning the state to become an "agreement state" with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The legislation establishes a comprehensive radiation control framework under the Department of Environmental Protection, including creating a Radiation Advisory Board, implementing licensing and registration requirements for radioactive materials and equipment (including X-ray machines and radon testing/mitigation), and establishing dedicated funding mechanisms through new Radiation Site Closure and Radiation Licensure funds. By consolidating radiation oversight under a single agency and aligning state regulations with federal standards, the bill enables West Virginia to assume direct regulatory authority from the federal government over certain radioactive materials within its borders, while also establishing enforcement mechanisms including civil penalties and criminal offenses for violations.