One of the major ways the West Virginia Oil and Natural Gas Association goes about representing the interests of the entire industry is through its active committee system. WVONGA has five standing committees that review issues and develop consensus on what policies and plans of action the Board of Directors should take. The Association also has a number of subcommittees and ad hoc groups that are created on an as needed basis for specific issues or objectives.
Environmental Affairs Committee
Few other matters are affecting the state’s oil and natural gas industry as are the increase in environmental regulations and costs. The Environmental Affairs Committee monitors an ever increasing number of state and federal environmental issues and regulations and develops appropriate responses. Reports and updated are provided regularly to the members. The committee also meets regularly to discuss these matters and share information.
Govermental Relations Committee
To ensure that the views and concerns of the industry are taken into consideration by West Virginia lawmakers, the Association maintains a constant presence in Charleston, the state capital. The association’s full-time Executive Director, Nicholas “Corky” DeMarco and a team of government relations specialists monitor and lobby lawmakers on issues of importance. During the annual 60-day legislative session, members are provided with weekly summary reports and updates on the legislative proceedings. In addition, the committee hosts weekly legislative briefing meetings as a way to share information and to maintain consensus on key issues.
Safety Committee
The mission of the WVONGA Safety Committee is to provide a venue for continued improvement of safety in the oil and natural gas industry in West Virginia via the sharing and promoting of Best Practices, providing safety resources for members and contractors and promoting public awareness.
Recently BrickStreet Insurance and WVONGA presented a comprehensive safety and return to work program for the oil and gas industry. As a result of this cooperative effort, WVONGA members who qualify will receive a reduction in their workers compensation premiums. Currently qualifying members receive a reduction of 8.6%. Read the details of the program.
Legal & Tax Committee
The Association has two other committees, Legal and Tax, that work on a variety of legal and tax issues that may impact the industry. Lawyers and tax specialists from member companies are constantly being asked to review regulations and respond to new issues.