WV SB627

Removes the existing prohibition on leasing state-owned pore spaces (underground geological formations used for carbon sequestration) beneath state parks, while still prohibiting any surface disturbance on state park property for drilling or injection activities

Requires all proceeds from leased pore spaces under state forests, state parks, natural and scenic areas, wildlife management areas, and other Division of Natural Resources lands to be used exclusively for improvements and maintenance at the specific location where the leased pore space is situated

Establishes a 200-foot setback requirement, mandating that well pad centers for pore space leases underlying state parks cannot be located within 200 feet of a state park boundary

Allows the Secretary of the Department of Commerce, in consultation with the Director of the Division of Natural Resources, to waive the 200-foot setback requirement after evaluating impacts on viewshed, noise, and public enjoyment of the state park

Takes effect July 8, 2025 (90 days after passage on April 9, 2025)