Support HB2454 – Support Beekeepers
What is HB2454?
House Bill 2454 (HB2454) is a bill designed to protect and support beekeeping in West Virginia by ensuring that the West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) remains the sole authority over apiary regulations. This bill prevents cities, towns, and counties from banning or restricting beekeeping and strengthens legal protections for beekeepers.
Why HB2454 Matters
Honey bees are essential pollinators, supporting West Virginia’s farms, gardens, and ecosystems. Beekeeping is a vital agricultural practice that enhances biodiversity, strengthens food security, and contributes to the local economy.
Without HB2454, inconsistent municipal regulations could threaten beekeeping by allowing local governments to impose unnecessary restrictions or outright bans.
If passed, HB2454 would:
✅ Prevent Local Bans on Beekeeping – Cities, towns, and counties would no longer be able to regulate or prohibit beekeeping. Similar laws exist in states like Florida, Tennessee, and Indiana.
✅ Eliminate Unnecessary Licensing – Local governments could not require beekeepers to obtain special licenses or permits to keep honey bees.
✅ Strengthen Legal Protections for Beekeepers – The bill raises the legal standard for nuisance complaints against beekeepers, making it harder for frivolous lawsuits to disrupt responsible apiary management.
✅ Provide Legal Support for Beekeepers – Beekeepers who successfully challenge illegal local restrictions could recover attorney fees, costs, and damages.
How You Can Help:
Make Your Voice Heard! Tell your legislators to support HB2454 and protect beekeeping in West Virginia.
1️⃣ Find Your Legislators – Use the WV Legislature’s website to locate your representatives:
https://www.wvlegislature.gov/house/roster.cfm
2️⃣ Send a Message – Call or email your legislators to express your support for HB2454. A simple message makes a big impact! Click here for a pre-generated email to send on!
3️⃣ Share This Page – Help spread the word by sharing this with fellow beekeepers, farmers, and community members.
Learn More
Read the full bill and track its progress:
www.legis.state.wv.us/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2454&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill
By supporting HB2454, we can protect beekeeping rights, ensure responsible regulation, and sustain West Virginia’s agriculture for future generations.
Act Now – Your Support is Crucial!