West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 144 - Tourism
Here’s a refined overview of West Virginia Code of State Rules, Agency 144 – Tourism (Title 144):
📘 Title 144 – Procedural Rules (Department of Tourism)
These rules govern the process for issuing direct advertising grants and internal purchasing procedures of the WV Tourism Commission under authority of W. Va. Code §§ 5B‑2‑9 and 5B‑2‑12 (law.cornell.edu).
🎯 Series 144‑01: Direct Advertising Grants Program (Active since April 15, 2016)
Purpose & Scope
Governs eligibility, application, award criteria, and grant disbursement of tourism promotion funds (law.cornell.edu).
Key Definitions (Section 144‑1‑2)
Applicant: WV-based for-profit or nonprofit “destinations” promoting tourism (e.g., lodging, attractions) .
Attraction/Destination: Includes historic sites, theme parks, natural areas, and entertainment venues—often combined in regional groupings (regulations.justia.com).
Minimum Budget Threshold: Projects must cost at least $20,000 total; WV share must be ≥$10,000—unless applying under “small” or “fairs & festivals” subgrants (law.cornell.edu).
Application Requirements & Conditions
Applicants must disclose: funding sources, financial interests, legal compliance, bankruptcy status .
Projects spanning WV and neighboring states are eligible, but only WV-related costs are matched (law.cornell.edu).
No expenses can be incurred before the grant approval date (law.cornell.edu).
Grant Management & Compliance
Establishes formal Project Agreements upon award (casetext.com).
Sets up audit and compliance rights to monitor use of grant funds (casetext.com).
🔧 Series 144‑03: Purchasing Procedures (Active since October 3, 2024)
Outlines the Commission’s internal procurement policies, as required by W. Va. Code §5B‑2I‑4, covering contracts, purchasing thresholds, and vendor standards (apps.sos.wv.gov).
✅ Key Takeaways
| Series | Focus | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 144‑01 | Direct advertising grants program | Eligibility, definitions, funding thresholds, disclosures, audit |
| 144‑03 | Internal purchasing procedures | Procurement policies aligned with WV law |
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