In this last of a four-part series, Jenkins Fenstermaker, PLLC, explores the myriad and varied Qualified Opportunity Zones in West Virginia, focusing in on current development projects in North Central West Virginia.

West Virginia finds itself with loads of exciting prospects with the creation of Qualified Opportunity Zones and Qualified Opportunity Funds that were established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Public Law 115-97). West Virginia's numerous US routes (US 50, 119, and 250), ease of road transportation (via I-79 and I-68), and Corridor D and Corridor H, combined with the state's assorted industries and focus on hospitality and tourism, make the Mountain State an ideal location for potential investors.

A drive through Charleston, West Virginia (WV) reveals the investments that are being made to grow business and enhance the local community. Savvy developers and investors who seek to capitalize on and lend to the city's progress now have an additional incentive in the form of tax benefits when efforts are focused in designated Charleston, WV Opportunity Zones.

This article is the third in a series of four on the topic of Opportunity Zones in WV. An overview of Opportunity Zone basics was provided in the first blog of the series, while article two focused on development opportunities in Huntington, WV.

It is an exciting time for the river city of Huntington, West Virginia. Potential investors can now further West Virginia Governor Jim Justice's vision for a brighter future for the Mountain State by investing in the Huntington, WV Opportunity Zones identified in three census tract areas: Guyandotte, West End Huntington, and Downtown Huntington.

Merger or acquisition? These terms are interchangeable in everyday discourse. However, they have distinct, different legal meanings. If you are involved in such a transaction-in West Virginia (WV) or elsewhere-it is crucial to know the difference. Your WV mergers and acquisitions lawyer should command a thorough knowledge of these legal distinctions and the nuances of each. The attorneys of Jenkins Fenstermaker, PLLC are experienced and trusted advisors who guide companies through the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) process.

Significant changes were made to WV gun laws for businesses in the 2018 legislative session. House Bill 4187, an amendment to West Virginia Code §61-7-14, created the Business Liability Protection Act. The Act effectively bans businesses from restricting the rights of individuals to stow a firearm in a personal vehicle on employer property under certain circumstances.