Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes the West Virginia Collaboratory to study state environmental policy needs, housed at Marshall University.

Highlights:

• Establishes the West Virginia Collaboratory for the dissemination of policy and research expertise of state institutions of higher education to state and local governments (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that the Collaboratory will be housed at Marshall University (Sec. 1).

• Requires the Collaboratory to do at least the following with funds appropriated by the legislature (Sec. 1):

• Conduct or participate in research projects that may be of interest to citizens and policymakers in the state, including on topics of natural resource management and habitat, environmental, and water quality improvements;

• Support research programs at institutions of higher education within the Collaboratory’s area of focus;

• Develop and disseminate relevant best practices to interested parties and make recommendations to the Legislature; and

• Teach and train students and faculty to engage in neutral and unbiased research and advice on science policy.

• Establishes the Collaboratory Advisory Group, consisting of members of the Legislature, state university designees, and other state citizens appointed by the Legislature (Sec. 2).

• Requires the Collaboratory Advisory Group to assist the Collaboratory in establishing priorities and protocols for the identification of research opportunities (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text