{"formats":[{"name":"JSON","format":"json","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-json\/2.2-5600.json"},{"name":"Plain Text","format":"text","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-text\/2.2-5600.txt"},{"name":"XML","format":"xml","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-xml\/2.2-5600.xml"},{"name":"HTML","format":"html","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-html\/2.2-5600.html"}],"law_id":75817,"edition_id":1,"section_id":75817,"structure_id":15647,"section_number":"2.2-5600","catch_line":"Form of compact","history":"1962, c. 364, \u00a7 2-306; 1966, c. 677, \u00a7 2.1-336; 1979, c. 295; 2001, c. 844.","full_text":"The General Assembly hereby enacts, and the Commonwealth of Virginia hereby enters into, the Southern States Energy Compact with any and all states legally joining therein according to its terms, in the form substantially as follows:\n\t\tArticle I. Policy and Purpose.\n\t\tThe party states recognize that the proper employment and conservation of energy and employment of energy-related facilities, materials, and products, within the context of a responsible regard for the environment can assist substantially in the industrialization of the South and the development of a balanced economy for the region. They also recognize that optimum benefit from the acquisition of energy resources and facilities require systematic encouragement, guidance, and assistance from the party states on a cooperative basis. It is the policy of the party states to undertake such cooperation on a continuing basis; it is the purpose of this compact to provide the instruments and framework for such a cooperative effort to improve the economy of the South and contribute to the individual and community well-being of the region’s people.\n\t\tArticle II. The Board.\n\nA\n\nThere is created an agency of the party states to be known as the “Southern States Energy Board” (hereinafter called the Board). The Board shall be composed of three members from each party state, one of whom shall be appointed or designated in each state to represent the Governor, the State Senate and the State House of Representatives, respectively. Each member shall be designated or appointed in accordance with the law of the state which he represents and serving and subject to removal in accordance with such law. Any member of the Board may provide for the discharge of his duties and the performance of his functions thereon (either for the duration of his membership or for any lesser period of time) by a deputy or assistant, if the laws of his state make specific provisions therefor. The federal government may be represented without vote if provision is made by federal law for such representation.B\n\nEach party state shall be entitled to one vote on the Board, to be determined by majority vote of each member or member’s representative from the party state present and voting on any question. No action of the Board shall be binding unless taken at a meeting at which a majority of all party states are represented and unless a majority of the total number of votes on the Board are cast in favor thereof.C\n\nThe Board shall have a seal.D\n\nThe Board shall elect annually, from among its members, a chairman, a vice-chairman, and a treasurer. The Board shall appoint an Executive Director who shall serve at its pleasure and who shall also act as Secretary, and who, together with the Treasurer, shall be bonded in such amounts as the Board may require.E\n\nThe Executive Director, with the approval of the Board, shall appoint and remove or discharge such personnel as may be necessary for the performance of the Board’s functions irrespective of the civil service, personnel or other merit system laws of any of the party states.F\n\nThe Board may establish and maintain, independently or in conjunction with any one or more of the party states, a suitable retirement system for its full-time employees. Employees of the Board shall be eligible for social security coverage in respect of old age and survivors insurance provided that the Board takes such steps as may be necessary pursuant to federal law to participate in such program of insurance as a governmental agency or unit. The Board may establish and maintain or participate in such additional programs of employee benefits as may be appropriate.G\n\nThe Board may borrow, accept, or contract for the services of personnel from any state or the United States or any subdivision or agency thereof, from any interstate agency, or from any institution, person, firm or corporation.H\n\nThe Board may accept for any of its purposes and functions under this compact any and all donations, and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials, and services (conditional or otherwise) from any state or the United States or any subdivision or agency thereof, or interstate agency, or from any institution, person, firm, or corporation, and may receive, utilize and dispose of the same.I\n\nThe Board may establish and maintain such facilities as may be necessary for the transacting of its business. The Board may acquire, hold, and convey real and personal property and any interest therein.J\n\nThe Board shall adopt bylaws, rules, and regulations for the conduct of its business, and shall have the power to amend and rescind these bylaws, rules, and regulations. The Board shall publish its bylaws, rules and regulations in convenient form and shall file a copy thereof, and shall also file a copy of any amendment thereto, with the appropriate agency or officer in each of the party states.K\n\nThe Board annually shall make to the governor of each party state, a report covering the activities of the Board for the preceding year, and embodying such recommendations as may have been adopted by the Board, which report shall be transmitted to the legislature of said state. The Board may issue such additional reports as it may deem desirable.\n\t\t\tArticle III. Finances.A\n\nThe Board shall submit to the executive head or designated officer or officers of each party state a budget of its estimated expenditures for such period as may be required by the laws of that jurisdiction for presentation to the legislature thereof.B\n\nEach of the Board’s budgets of estimated expenditures shall contain specific recommendations of the amount or amounts to be appropriated by each of the party states. One-half of the total amount of each budget of estimated expenditures shall be apportioned among the party states in equal shares; one quarter of each such budget shall be apportioned among the party states in accordance with the ratio of their populations to the total population of the entire group of party states based on the last decennial federal census; and one quarter of each such budget shall be apportioned among the party states on the basis of the relative average per capita income of the inhabitants in each of the party states based on the latest computations published by the federal census-taking agency. Subject to appropriation by their respective legislatures, the Board shall be provided with such funds by each of the party states as are necessary to provide the means of establishing and maintaining facilities, a staff of personnel, and such activities as may be necessary to fulfill the powers and duties imposed upon and entrusted to the Board.C\n\nThe Board may meet any of its obligations in whole or in part with funds available to it under Article II (h) of this compact, provided that the Board takes specific action setting aside such funds prior to the incurring of any obligation to be met in whole or in part in this manner. Except where the Board makes use of funds available to it under Article II H, the Board shall not incur any obligation prior to the allotment of funds by the party jurisdictions adequate to meet the same.D\n\nThe Board shall keep accurate accounts of all receipts and disbursements. The receipts and disbursements of the Board shall be subject to the audit and accounting procedures established under its bylaws. However, all receipts and disbursements of funds handled by the Board shall be audited yearly by a qualified public accountant and the report of the audit shall be included in and become part of the annual report of the Board.E\n\nThe accounts of the Board shall be open at any reasonable time for inspection.\n\t\t\tArticle IV. Advisory Committees.\n\t\t\tThe Board may establish such advisory and technical committees as it may deem necessary, membership on which to include but not be limited to private citizens, expert and lay personnel, representatives of industry, labor, commerce, agriculture, civic associations, medicine, education, voluntary health agencies, and officials of local, state and federal government, and may cooperate with and use the services of any such committees and the organizations which they represent in furthering any of its activities under this compact.\n\t\t\tArticle V. Powers.\n\t\t\tThe Board shall have power to:A\n\nAscertain and analyze on a continuing basis the position of the South with respect to energy, energy-related industries and environmental concerns.B\n\nEncourage the development, conservation, and responsible use of energy and energy-related facilities, installation, and products as part of a balanced economy and healthy environment.C\n\nCollect, correlate, and disseminate information relating to civilian uses of energy and energy-related materials and products.D\n\nConduct, or cooperate in conducting, programs of training for state and local personnel engaged in any aspect of1\n\nEnergy, environment, and application of energy, environmental, and related concerns to industry, medicine, or education or the promotion or regulation thereof.2\n\nThe formulation or administration of measures designed to promote safety in any matter related to the development, use or disposal of energy and energy-related materials, products, installations, or wastes.E\n\nOrganize and conduct, or assist and cooperate in organizing and conducting, demonstrations of energy product, material, or equipment use and disposal and of proper techniques or processes for the application of energy resources to the civilian economy or general welfare.F\n\nUndertake such nonregulatory functions with respect to sources of radiation as may promote the economic development and general welfare of the region.G\n\nStudy industrial, health, safety, and other standards, laws, codes, rules, regulations, and administrative practices in or related to energy and environmental fields.H\n\nRecommend such changes in, or amendments or additions to the laws, codes, rules, regulations, administrative procedures and practices or ordinances of the party states in any of the fields of its interest and competence as in its judgment may be appropriate. Any such recommendation shall be made through the appropriate state agency with due consideration of the desirability of uniformity but shall also give appropriate weight to any special circumstance which may justify variations to meet local conditions.I\n\nPrepare, publish and distribute, (with or without charge) such reports, bulletins, newsletters or other material as it deems appropriate.J\n\nCooperate with the United States Department of Energy or any agency successor thereto, any other officer or agency of the United States, and any other governmental unit or agency or officer thereof, and with any private persons or agencies in any of the fields of its interests.K\n\nAct as licensee of the United States government or any party state with respect to the conduct of any research activity requiring such license and operate such research facility or undertake any program pursuant thereto.L\n\nAscertain from time to time such methods, practices, circumstances, and conditions as may bring about the prevention and control of energy and environmental incidents in the area comprising the party states, to coordinate the nuclear, environmental and other energy-related incident prevention and control plans and the work relating thereto of the appropriate agencies of the party states and to facilitate the rendering of aid by the party states to each other in coping with energy and environmental incidents.\n\t\t\tThe Board may formulate and, in accordance with need from time to time, revise a regional plan or regional plans for coping with energy and environmental incidents within the territory of the party states as a whole or within any subregion or subregions of the geographic area covered by this compact.\n\t\t\tArticle VI. Supplementary Agreements.A\n\nTo the extent that the Board has not undertaken any activity or project which would be within its power under the provisions of Article V of this compact, any two or more of the party states (acting by their duly constituted administrative officials) may enter into supplementary agreements for the undertaking and continuance of such an activity or project. Any such agreement shall specify its purpose or purposes; its duration and the procedure for termination thereof or withdrawal therefrom; the method of financing and allocating the costs of the activity or project; and such other matters as may be necessary or appropriate. No such supplementary agreement entered into pursuant to this article shall become effective prior to its submission to and approval by the Board. The Board shall give such approval unless it finds that the supplementary agreement or the activity or project contemplated thereby is inconsistent with the provisions of this compact or a program or activity conducted by or participated in by the Board.B\n\nUnless all of the party states participate in a supplementary agreement, any cost or costs thereof shall be borne separately by the states party thereto. However, the Board may administer or otherwise assist in the operation of any supplementary agreement.C\n\nNo party to a supplementary agreement entered into pursuant to this article shall be relieved thereby of any obligation or duty assumed by said party state under or pursuant to this compact, except that timely and proper performance of such obligation or duty by means of the supplementary agreement may be offered as performance pursuant to the compact.\n\t\t\tArticle VII. Other Laws and Relationships.\n\t\t\tNothing in this compact shall be construed to:A\n\nPermit or require any person or other entity to avoid or refuse compliance with any law, rule, regulation, order or ordinance of a party state or subdivision thereof now or hereafter made, enacted or in force.B\n\nLimit, diminish, or otherwise impair jurisdiction exercised by the United States Department of Energy, any agency successor thereto, or any other federal department, agency or officer pursuant to and in conformity with any valid and operative act of Congress.C\n\nAlter the relations between and respective internal responsibilities of the government of a party state and its subdivisions.D\n\nPermit or authorize the Board to exercise any regulatory authority or to own or operate any nuclear reactor for the generation of electric energy; nor shall the Board own or operate any facility or installation for industrial or commercial purposes.\n\t\t\tArticle VIII. Eligible Parties, Entry Into Force or Withdrawal.A\n\nAny or all of the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands shall be eligible to become party to this compact.B\n\nAs to any eligible party state, this compact shall become effective when its legislature shall have enacted the same into law; provided that it shall not become initially effective until enacted into law by seven states.C\n\nAny party state may withdraw from this compact by enacting a statute repealing the same, but no such withdrawal shall become effective until the governor of the withdrawing state shall have sent formal notice in writing to the governor of each other party state informing said governors of the action of the legislature in repealing the compact and declaring an intention to withdraw.\n\t\t\tArticle IX. Severability and Construction.\n\t\t\tThe provisions of this compact and of any supplementary agreement entered into hereunder shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this compact or such supplementary agreement is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any participating state or of the United States or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this compact or such supplementary agreement and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this compact or any supplementary agreement entered into hereunder shall be held contrary to the constitution of any state participating therein, the compact or such supplementary agreement shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining states and in full force and effect as to the state affected as to all severable matters. The provisions of this compact and of any supplementary agreement entered into pursuant hereto shall be liberally construed to effectuate the purposes thereof.","order_by":null,"text":{"0":{"id":272261,"text":"The General Assembly hereby enacts, and the Commonwealth of Virginia hereby enters into, the Southern States Energy Compact with any and all states legally joining therein according to its terms, in the form substantially as follows:\n\t\tArticle I. Policy and Purpose.\n\t\tThe party states recognize that the proper employment and conservation of energy and employment of energy-related facilities, materials, and products, within the context of a responsible regard for the environment can assist substantially in the industrialization of the South and the development of a balanced economy for the region. They also recognize that optimum benefit from the acquisition of energy resources and facilities require systematic encouragement, guidance, and assistance from the party states on a cooperative basis. It is the policy of the party states to undertake such cooperation on a continuing basis; it is the purpose of this compact to provide the instruments and framework for such a cooperative effort to improve the economy of the South and contribute to the individual and community well-being of the region’s people.\n\t\tArticle II. The Board.","type":"section","prefixes":[""],"prefix":"","entire_prefix":"","prefix_anchor":"","level":1,"next_prefix":"A"},"1":{"id":272262,"text":"There is created an agency of the party states to be known as the “Southern States Energy Board” (hereinafter called the Board). The Board shall be composed of three members from each party state, one of whom shall be appointed or designated in each state to represent the Governor, the State Senate and the State House of Representatives, respectively. Each member shall be designated or appointed in accordance with the law of the state which he represents and serving and subject to removal in accordance with such law. Any member of the Board may provide for the discharge of his duties and the performance of his functions thereon (either for the duration of his membership or for any lesser period of time) by a deputy or assistant, if the laws of his state make specific provisions therefor. The federal government may be represented without vote if provision is made by federal law for such representation.","type":"section","prefixes":["A"],"prefix":"A","entire_prefix":"A","prefix_anchor":"A","level":1,"prior_prefix":"","next_prefix":"B"},"2":{"id":272263,"text":"Each party state shall be entitled to one vote on the Board, to be determined by majority vote of each member or member’s representative from the party state present and voting on any question. No action of the Board shall be binding unless taken at a meeting at which a majority of all party states are represented and unless a majority of the total number of votes on the Board are cast in favor thereof.","type":"section","prefixes":["B"],"prefix":"B","entire_prefix":"B","prefix_anchor":"B","level":1,"prior_prefix":"A","next_prefix":"C"},"3":{"id":272264,"text":"The Board shall have a seal.","type":"section","prefixes":["C"],"prefix":"C","entire_prefix":"C","prefix_anchor":"C","level":1,"prior_prefix":"B","next_prefix":"D"},"4":{"id":272265,"text":"The Board shall elect annually, from among its members, a chairman, a vice-chairman, and a treasurer. The Board shall appoint an Executive Director who shall serve at its pleasure and who shall also act as Secretary, and who, together with the Treasurer, shall be bonded in such amounts as the Board may require.","type":"section","prefixes":["D"],"prefix":"D","entire_prefix":"D","prefix_anchor":"D","level":1,"prior_prefix":"C","next_prefix":"E"},"5":{"id":272266,"text":"The Executive Director, with the approval of the Board, shall appoint and remove or discharge such personnel as may be necessary for the performance of the Board’s functions irrespective of the civil service, personnel or other merit system laws of any of the party states.","type":"section","prefixes":["E"],"prefix":"E","entire_prefix":"E","prefix_anchor":"E","level":1,"prior_prefix":"D","next_prefix":"F"},"6":{"id":272267,"text":"The Board may establish and maintain, independently or in conjunction with any one or more of the party states, a suitable retirement system for its full-time employees. Employees of the Board shall be eligible for social security coverage in respect of old age and survivors insurance provided that the Board takes such steps as may be necessary pursuant to federal law to participate in such program of insurance as a governmental agency or unit. The Board may establish and maintain or participate in such additional programs of employee benefits as may be appropriate.","type":"section","prefixes":["F"],"prefix":"F","entire_prefix":"F","prefix_anchor":"F","level":1,"prior_prefix":"E","next_prefix":"G"},"7":{"id":272268,"text":"The Board may borrow, accept, or contract for the services of personnel from any state or the United States or any subdivision or agency thereof, from any interstate agency, or from any institution, person, firm or corporation.","type":"section","prefixes":["G"],"prefix":"G","entire_prefix":"G","prefix_anchor":"G","level":1,"prior_prefix":"F","next_prefix":"H"},"8":{"id":272269,"text":"The Board may accept for any of its purposes and functions under this compact any and all donations, and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials, and services (conditional or otherwise) from any state or the United States or any subdivision or agency thereof, or interstate agency, or from any institution, person, firm, or corporation, and may receive, utilize and dispose of the same.","type":"section","prefixes":["H"],"prefix":"H","entire_prefix":"H","prefix_anchor":"H","level":1,"prior_prefix":"G","next_prefix":"I"},"9":{"id":272270,"text":"The Board may establish and maintain such facilities as may be necessary for the transacting of its business. The Board may acquire, hold, and convey real and personal property and any interest therein.","type":"section","prefixes":["I"],"prefix":"I","entire_prefix":"I","prefix_anchor":"I","level":1,"prior_prefix":"H","next_prefix":"J"},"10":{"id":272271,"text":"The Board shall adopt bylaws, rules, and regulations for the conduct of its business, and shall have the power to amend and rescind these bylaws, rules, and regulations. The Board shall publish its bylaws, rules and regulations in convenient form and shall file a copy thereof, and shall also file a copy of any amendment thereto, with the appropriate agency or officer in each of the party states.","type":"section","prefixes":["J"],"prefix":"J","entire_prefix":"J","prefix_anchor":"J","level":1,"prior_prefix":"I","next_prefix":"K"},"11":{"id":272272,"text":"The Board annually shall make to the governor of each party state, a report covering the activities of the Board for the preceding year, and embodying such recommendations as may have been adopted by the Board, which report shall be transmitted to the legislature of said state. The Board may issue such additional reports as it may deem desirable.\n\t\t\tArticle III. Finances.","type":"section","prefixes":["K"],"prefix":"K","entire_prefix":"K","prefix_anchor":"K","level":1,"prior_prefix":"J","next_prefix":"A"},"12":{"id":272273,"text":"The Board shall submit to the executive head or designated officer or officers of each party state a budget of its estimated expenditures for such period as may be required by the laws of that jurisdiction for presentation to the legislature thereof.","type":"section","prefixes":["A"],"prefix":"A","entire_prefix":"A","prefix_anchor":"A","level":1,"prior_prefix":"K","next_prefix":"B"},"13":{"id":272274,"text":"Each of the Board’s budgets of estimated expenditures shall contain specific recommendations of the amount or amounts to be appropriated by each of the party states. One-half of the total amount of each budget of estimated expenditures shall be apportioned among the party states in equal shares; one quarter of each such budget shall be apportioned among the party states in accordance with the ratio of their populations to the total population of the entire group of party states based on the last decennial federal census; and one quarter of each such budget shall be apportioned among the party states on the basis of the relative average per capita income of the inhabitants in each of the party states based on the latest computations published by the federal census-taking agency. Subject to appropriation by their respective legislatures, the Board shall be provided with such funds by each of the party states as are necessary to provide the means of establishing and maintaining facilities, a staff of personnel, and such activities as may be necessary to fulfill the powers and duties imposed upon and entrusted to the Board.","type":"section","prefixes":["B"],"prefix":"B","entire_prefix":"B","prefix_anchor":"B","level":1,"prior_prefix":"A","next_prefix":"C"},"14":{"id":272275,"text":"The Board may meet any of its obligations in whole or in part with funds available to it under Article II (h) of this compact, provided that the Board takes specific action setting aside such funds prior to the incurring of any obligation to be met in whole or in part in this manner. Except where the Board makes use of funds available to it under Article II H, the Board shall not incur any obligation prior to the allotment of funds by the party jurisdictions adequate to meet the same.","type":"section","prefixes":["C"],"prefix":"C","entire_prefix":"C","prefix_anchor":"C","level":1,"prior_prefix":"B","next_prefix":"D"},"15":{"id":272276,"text":"The Board shall keep accurate accounts of all receipts and disbursements. The receipts and disbursements of the Board shall be subject to the audit and accounting procedures established under its bylaws. However, all receipts and disbursements of funds handled by the Board shall be audited yearly by a qualified public accountant and the report of the audit shall be included in and become part of the annual report of the Board.","type":"section","prefixes":["D"],"prefix":"D","entire_prefix":"D","prefix_anchor":"D","level":1,"prior_prefix":"C","next_prefix":"E"},"16":{"id":272277,"text":"The accounts of the Board shall be open at any reasonable time for inspection.\n\t\t\tArticle IV. Advisory Committees.\n\t\t\tThe Board may establish such advisory and technical committees as it may deem necessary, membership on which to include but not be limited to private citizens, expert and lay personnel, representatives of industry, labor, commerce, agriculture, civic associations, medicine, education, voluntary health agencies, and officials of local, state and federal government, and may cooperate with and use the services of any such committees and the organizations which they represent in furthering any of its activities under this compact.\n\t\t\tArticle V. Powers.\n\t\t\tThe Board shall have power to:","type":"section","prefixes":["E"],"prefix":"E","entire_prefix":"E","prefix_anchor":"E","level":1,"prior_prefix":"D","next_prefix":"A"},"17":{"id":272278,"text":"Ascertain and analyze on a continuing basis the position of the South with respect to energy, energy-related industries and environmental concerns.","type":"section","prefixes":["A"],"prefix":"A","entire_prefix":"A","prefix_anchor":"A","level":1,"prior_prefix":"E","next_prefix":"B"},"18":{"id":272279,"text":"Encourage the development, conservation, and responsible use of energy and energy-related facilities, installation, and products as part of a balanced economy and healthy environment.","type":"section","prefixes":["B"],"prefix":"B","entire_prefix":"B","prefix_anchor":"B","level":1,"prior_prefix":"A","next_prefix":"C"},"19":{"id":272280,"text":"Collect, correlate, and disseminate information relating to civilian uses of energy and energy-related materials and products.","type":"section","prefixes":["C"],"prefix":"C","entire_prefix":"C","prefix_anchor":"C","level":1,"prior_prefix":"B","next_prefix":"D"},"20":{"id":272281,"text":"Conduct, or cooperate in conducting, programs of training for state and local personnel engaged in any aspect of","type":"section","prefixes":["D"],"prefix":"D","entire_prefix":"D","prefix_anchor":"D","level":1,"prior_prefix":"C","next_prefix":"D1"},"21":{"id":272282,"text":"Energy, environment, and application of energy, environmental, and related concerns to industry, medicine, or education or the promotion or regulation thereof.","type":"section","prefixes":["D","1"],"prefix":"1","entire_prefix":"D1","prefix_anchor":"D1","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D","next_prefix":"D2"},"22":{"id":272283,"text":"The formulation or administration of measures designed to promote safety in any matter related to the development, use or disposal of energy and energy-related materials, products, installations, or wastes.","type":"section","prefixes":["D","2"],"prefix":"2","entire_prefix":"D2","prefix_anchor":"D2","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D1","next_prefix":"E"},"23":{"id":272284,"text":"Organize and conduct, or assist and cooperate in organizing and conducting, demonstrations of energy product, material, or equipment use and disposal and of proper techniques or processes for the application of energy resources to the civilian economy or general welfare.","type":"section","prefixes":["E"],"prefix":"E","entire_prefix":"E","prefix_anchor":"E","level":1,"prior_prefix":"D2","next_prefix":"F"},"24":{"id":272285,"text":"Undertake such nonregulatory functions with respect to sources of radiation as may promote the economic development and general welfare of the region.","type":"section","prefixes":["F"],"prefix":"F","entire_prefix":"F","prefix_anchor":"F","level":1,"prior_prefix":"E","next_prefix":"G"},"25":{"id":272286,"text":"Study industrial, health, safety, and other standards, laws, codes, rules, regulations, and administrative practices in or related to energy and environmental fields.","type":"section","prefixes":["G"],"prefix":"G","entire_prefix":"G","prefix_anchor":"G","level":1,"prior_prefix":"F","next_prefix":"H"},"26":{"id":272287,"text":"Recommend such changes in, or amendments or additions to the laws, codes, rules, regulations, administrative procedures and practices or ordinances of the party states in any of the fields of its interest and competence as in its judgment may be appropriate. Any such recommendation shall be made through the appropriate state agency with due consideration of the desirability of uniformity but shall also give appropriate weight to any special circumstance which may justify variations to meet local conditions.","type":"section","prefixes":["H"],"prefix":"H","entire_prefix":"H","prefix_anchor":"H","level":1,"prior_prefix":"G","next_prefix":"I"},"27":{"id":272288,"text":"Prepare, publish and distribute, (with or without charge) such reports, bulletins, newsletters or other material as it deems appropriate.","type":"section","prefixes":["I"],"prefix":"I","entire_prefix":"I","prefix_anchor":"I","level":1,"prior_prefix":"H","next_prefix":"J"},"28":{"id":272289,"text":"Cooperate with the United States Department of Energy or any agency successor thereto, any other officer or agency of the United States, and any other governmental unit or agency or officer thereof, and with any private persons or agencies in any of the fields of its interests.","type":"section","prefixes":["J"],"prefix":"J","entire_prefix":"J","prefix_anchor":"J","level":1,"prior_prefix":"I","next_prefix":"K"},"29":{"id":272290,"text":"Act as licensee of the United States government or any party state with respect to the conduct of any research activity requiring such license and operate such research facility or undertake any program pursuant thereto.","type":"section","prefixes":["K"],"prefix":"K","entire_prefix":"K","prefix_anchor":"K","level":1,"prior_prefix":"J","next_prefix":"L"},"30":{"id":272291,"text":"Ascertain from time to time such methods, practices, circumstances, and conditions as may bring about the prevention and control of energy and environmental incidents in the area comprising the party states, to coordinate the nuclear, environmental and other energy-related incident prevention and control plans and the work relating thereto of the appropriate agencies of the party states and to facilitate the rendering of aid by the party states to each other in coping with energy and environmental incidents.\n\t\t\tThe Board may formulate and, in accordance with need from time to time, revise a regional plan or regional plans for coping with energy and environmental incidents within the territory of the party states as a whole or within any subregion or subregions of the geographic area covered by this compact.\n\t\t\tArticle VI. Supplementary Agreements.","type":"section","prefixes":["L"],"prefix":"L","entire_prefix":"L","prefix_anchor":"L","level":1,"prior_prefix":"K","next_prefix":"A"},"31":{"id":272292,"text":"To the extent that the Board has not undertaken any activity or project which would be within its power under the provisions of Article V of this compact, any two or more of the party states (acting by their duly constituted administrative officials) may enter into supplementary agreements for the undertaking and continuance of such an activity or project. Any such agreement shall specify its purpose or purposes; its duration and the procedure for termination thereof or withdrawal therefrom; the method of financing and allocating the costs of the activity or project; and such other matters as may be necessary or appropriate. No such supplementary agreement entered into pursuant to this article shall become effective prior to its submission to and approval by the Board. The Board shall give such approval unless it finds that the supplementary agreement or the activity or project contemplated thereby is inconsistent with the provisions of this compact or a program or activity conducted by or participated in by the Board.","type":"section","prefixes":["A"],"prefix":"A","entire_prefix":"A","prefix_anchor":"A","level":1,"prior_prefix":"L","next_prefix":"B"},"32":{"id":272293,"text":"Unless all of the party states participate in a supplementary agreement, any cost or costs thereof shall be borne separately by the states party thereto. However, the Board may administer or otherwise assist in the operation of any supplementary agreement.","type":"section","prefixes":["B"],"prefix":"B","entire_prefix":"B","prefix_anchor":"B","level":1,"prior_prefix":"A","next_prefix":"C"},"33":{"id":272294,"text":"No party to a supplementary agreement entered into pursuant to this article shall be relieved thereby of any obligation or duty assumed by said party state under or pursuant to this compact, except that timely and proper performance of such obligation or duty by means of the supplementary agreement may be offered as performance pursuant to the compact.\n\t\t\tArticle VII. Other Laws and Relationships.\n\t\t\tNothing in this compact shall be construed to:","type":"section","prefixes":["C"],"prefix":"C","entire_prefix":"C","prefix_anchor":"C","level":1,"prior_prefix":"B","next_prefix":"A"},"34":{"id":272295,"text":"Permit or require any person or other entity to avoid or refuse compliance with any law, rule, regulation, order or ordinance of a party state or subdivision thereof now or hereafter made, enacted or in force.","type":"section","prefixes":["A"],"prefix":"A","entire_prefix":"A","prefix_anchor":"A","level":1,"prior_prefix":"C","next_prefix":"B"},"35":{"id":272296,"text":"Limit, diminish, or otherwise impair jurisdiction exercised by the United States Department of Energy, any agency successor thereto, or any other federal department, agency or officer pursuant to and in conformity with any valid and operative act of Congress.","type":"section","prefixes":["B"],"prefix":"B","entire_prefix":"B","prefix_anchor":"B","level":1,"prior_prefix":"A","next_prefix":"C"},"36":{"id":272297,"text":"Alter the relations between and respective internal responsibilities of the government of a party state and its subdivisions.","type":"section","prefixes":["C"],"prefix":"C","entire_prefix":"C","prefix_anchor":"C","level":1,"prior_prefix":"B","next_prefix":"D"},"37":{"id":272298,"text":"Permit or authorize the Board to exercise any regulatory authority or to own or operate any nuclear reactor for the generation of electric energy; nor shall the Board own or operate any facility or installation for industrial or commercial purposes.\n\t\t\tArticle VIII. Eligible Parties, Entry Into Force or Withdrawal.","type":"section","prefixes":["D"],"prefix":"D","entire_prefix":"D","prefix_anchor":"D","level":1,"prior_prefix":"C","next_prefix":"A"},"38":{"id":272299,"text":"Any or all of the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands shall be eligible to become party to this compact.","type":"section","prefixes":["A"],"prefix":"A","entire_prefix":"A","prefix_anchor":"A","level":1,"prior_prefix":"D","next_prefix":"B"},"39":{"id":272300,"text":"As to any eligible party state, this compact shall become effective when its legislature shall have enacted the same into law; provided that it shall not become initially effective until enacted into law by seven states.","type":"section","prefixes":["B"],"prefix":"B","entire_prefix":"B","prefix_anchor":"B","level":1,"prior_prefix":"A","next_prefix":"C"},"40":{"id":272301,"text":"Any party state may withdraw from this compact by enacting a statute repealing the same, but no such withdrawal shall become effective until the governor of the withdrawing state shall have sent formal notice in writing to the governor of each other party state informing said governors of the action of the legislature in repealing the compact and declaring an intention to withdraw.\n\t\t\tArticle IX. Severability and Construction.\n\t\t\tThe provisions of this compact and of any supplementary agreement entered into hereunder shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this compact or such supplementary agreement is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any participating state or of the United States or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this compact or such supplementary agreement and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this compact or any supplementary agreement entered into hereunder shall be held contrary to the constitution of any state participating therein, the compact or such supplementary agreement shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining states and in full force and effect as to the state affected as to all severable matters. The provisions of this compact and of any supplementary agreement entered into pursuant hereto shall be liberally construed to effectuate the purposes thereof.","type":"section","prefixes":["C"],"prefix":"C","entire_prefix":"C","prefix_anchor":"C","level":1,"prior_prefix":"B"}},"ancestry":[{"id":15647,"edition_id":1,"name":"Southern States Energy Compact","identifier":"56","label":"chapter","depth":4,"order_by":1,"parent_id":15646,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:57:20","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:57:20","permalink":{"id":178029,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":15647,"identifier":"56","token":"2.2\/II\/C\/56","url":"\/2.2\/II\/C\/56\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":15646,"edition_id":1,"name":"Interstate Compacts and Agreements","identifier":"C","label":"part","depth":3,"order_by":1,"parent_id":12750,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:57:20","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:57:20","permalink":{"id":178027,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":15646,"identifier":"C","token":"2.2\/II\/C","url":"\/2.2\/II\/C\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":12750,"edition_id":1,"name":"Administration of State Government","identifier":"II","label":"subtitle","depth":2,"order_by":1,"parent_id":12749,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:43:51","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:43:51","permalink":{"id":176253,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":12750,"identifier":"II","token":"2.2\/II","url":"\/2.2\/II\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":12749,"edition_id":1,"name":"Administration of Government","identifier":"2.2","label":"title","depth":1,"order_by":1,"parent_id":null,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:43:51","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:43:51","permalink":{"id":171453,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":12749,"identifier":"2.2","token":"2.2","url":"\/2.2\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}}],"structure_contents":[{"id":75817,"structure_id":15647,"section_number":"2.2-5600","catch_line":"Form of compact","url":"\/2.2-5600\/","token":"2.2\/II\/C\/56\/2.2-5600","metadata":false},{"id":86925,"structure_id":15647,"section_number":"2.2-5601","catch_line":"Appointment, term, compensation, and expenses of members of Southern States Energy Board","url":"\/2.2-5601\/","token":"2.2\/II\/C\/56\/2.2-5601","metadata":false},{"id":59802,"structure_id":15647,"section_number":"2.2-5602","catch_line":"Supplementary agreements","url":"\/2.2-5602\/","token":"2.2\/II\/C\/56\/2.2-5602","metadata":false},{"id":76631,"structure_id":15647,"section_number":"2.2-5603","catch_line":"Cooperation of departments, agencies and officers of Commonwealth","url":"\/2.2-5603\/","token":"2.2\/II\/C\/56\/2.2-5603","metadata":false}],"next_section":{"id":86925,"structure_id":15647,"section_number":"2.2-5601","catch_line":"Appointment, term, compensation, and expenses of members of Southern States Energy Board","url":"\/2.2-5601\/","token":"2.2\/II\/C\/56\/2.2-5601","metadata":false},"metadata":false,"official_url":"https:\/\/law.lis.virginia.gov\/vacode\/2.2-5600\/","history_text":"

This law was first created in 1962. The record of its establishment is cataloged in chapter 364 of that year\u2019s edition of \u201cActs of Assembly,\u201d the annual state publication listing all changes made to the Code of Virginia in that year. Unfortunately, the 1962 \u201cActs\u201d aren\u2019t available online. It has been modified 3 times. Those modifications are cataloged by \u201cThe Acts of Assembly,\u201d a state publication, by year and chapter. Those modifications that can be read on the General Assembly\u2019s website will be linked accordingly. Those modifications are as follows: in 1966, chapter 677; in 1979, chapter 295; in 2001, chapter 844<\/a>.<\/p>","references":false,"refers_to":false,"permalink":{"id":178031,"object_type":"law","relational_id":75817,"identifier":"2.2-5600","token":"2.2\/II\/C\/56\/2.2-5600","url":"\/2.2-5600\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1},"url":"\/2.2-5600\/","token":"2.2\/II\/C\/56\/2.2-5600","dublin_core":{"Title":"Form of compact","Type":"Text","Format":"text\/html","Identifier":"\u00a7 2.2-5600","Relation":"Code of Virginia"},"html":"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

The General Assembly hereby enacts, and the Commonwealth of Virginia hereby enters into, the Southern States Energy Compact with any and all states legally joining therein according to its terms, in the form substantially as follows:\n\t\tArticle I. Policy and Purpose.\n\t\tThe party<\/span> states recognize that the proper employment and conservation of energy and employment of energy-related facilities, materials<\/span>, and products, within the context of a responsible regard for the environment can assist substantially in the industrialization of the South and the development of a balanced economy for the region. They also recognize that optimum benefit from the acquisition of energy resources and facilities require systematic encouragement, guidance, and assistance from the party<\/span> states on a cooperative basis. It is the policy of the party<\/span> states to undertake such cooperation on a continuing basis; it is the purpose of this compact to provide the instruments and framework for such a cooperative effort to improve the economy of the South and contribute to the individual and community well-being of the region’s people.\n\t\tArticle II. The Board.<\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

A.<\/span> There is created an agency of the party<\/span> states to be known as the “Southern States Energy Board” (hereinafter called the Board). The Board shall be composed of three members from each party<\/span> state, one of whom shall be appointed or designated in each state to represent the Governor, the State Senate and the State House of Representatives, respectively. Each member shall be designated or appointed in accordance with the law<\/span> of the state which he represents and serving and subject to removal in accordance with such law<\/span>. Any member of the Board may provide for the discharge of his duties and the performance of his functions thereon (either for the duration of his membership or for any lesser period of time) by a deputy or assistant, if the laws<\/span> of his state make specific provisions therefor. The federal government may be represented without vote if provision is made by federal law<\/span> for such representation. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

B.<\/span> Each party<\/span> state shall be entitled to one vote on the Board, to be determined by majority vote of each member or member’s representative from the party<\/span> state present and voting on any question. No action of the Board shall be binding unless taken at a meeting at which a majority of all party<\/span> states are represented and unless a majority of the total number of votes on the Board are cast in favor thereof. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

C.<\/span> The Board shall have a seal. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

D.<\/span> The Board shall elect annually, from among its members, a chairman, a vice-chairman, and a treasurer. The Board shall appoint an Executive Director who shall serve at its pleasure and who shall also act as Secretary, and who, together with the Treasurer, shall be bonded in such amounts as the Board may require. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

E.<\/span> The Executive Director, with the approval of the Board, shall appoint and remove or discharge such personnel as may be necessary for the performance of the Board’s functions irrespective of the civil service, personnel or other merit system laws<\/span> of any of the party<\/span> states. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

F.<\/span> The Board may establish and maintain, independently or in conjunction with any one or more of the party<\/span> states, a suitable retirement system for its full-time employees. Employees of the Board shall be eligible for social security coverage in respect of old age and survivors insurance provided that the Board takes such steps as may be necessary pursuant to federal law<\/span> to participate in such program of insurance as a governmental agency or unit. The Board may establish and maintain or participate in such additional programs of employee benefits as may be appropriate. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

G.<\/span> The Board may borrow, accept, or contract<\/span> for the services of personnel from any state or the United States or any subdivision or agency thereof, from any interstate agency, or from any institution, person, firm or corporation. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

H.<\/span> The Board may accept for any of its purposes and functions under this compact any and all donations, and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials<\/span>, and services (conditional or otherwise) from any state or the United States or any subdivision or agency thereof, or interstate agency, or from any institution, person, firm, or corporation, and may receive, utilize and dispose of the same. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

I.<\/span> The Board may establish and maintain such facilities as may be necessary for the transacting of its business. The Board may acquire, hold, and convey real and personal property and any interest therein. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

J.<\/span> The Board shall adopt bylaws, rules, and regulations for the conduct of its business, and shall have the power to amend<\/span> and rescind these bylaws, rules, and regulations. The Board shall publish its bylaws, rules and regulations in convenient form and shall file a copy thereof, and shall also file a copy of any amendment thereto, with the appropriate agency or officer in each of the party<\/span> states. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

K.<\/span> The Board annually shall make to the governor of each party<\/span> state, a report covering the activities of the Board for the preceding year, and embodying such recommendations as may have been adopted by the Board, which report shall be transmitted to the legislature of said state. The Board may issue<\/span> such additional reports as it may deem desirable.\n\t\t\tArticle III. Finances. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

A.<\/span> The Board shall submit to the executive head or designated officer or officers of each party<\/span> state a budget of its estimated expenditures for such period as may be required by the laws<\/span> of that jurisdiction<\/span> for presentation to the legislature thereof. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

B.<\/span> Each of the Board’s budgets of estimated expenditures shall contain specific recommendations of the amount or amounts to be appropriated by each of the party<\/span> states. One-half of the total amount of each budget of estimated expenditures shall be apportioned among the party<\/span> states in equal shares; one quarter of each such budget shall be apportioned among the party<\/span> states in accordance with the ratio of their populations to the total population of the entire group of party<\/span> states based on the last decennial federal census; and one quarter of each such budget shall be apportioned among the party<\/span> states on the basis of the relative average per capita income of the inhabitants in each of the party<\/span> states based on the latest computations published by the federal census-taking agency. Subject to appropriation by their respective legislatures, the Board shall be provided with such funds by each of the party<\/span> states as are necessary to provide the means of establishing and maintaining facilities, a staff of personnel, and such activities as may be necessary to fulfill the powers and duties imposed upon and entrusted to the Board. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

C.<\/span> The Board may meet any of its obligations in whole or in part with funds available to it under Article II (h) of this compact, provided that the Board takes specific action setting aside such funds prior to the incurring of any obligation to be met in whole or in part in this manner. Except where the Board makes use of funds available to it under Article II H, the Board shall not incur any obligation prior to the allotment of funds by the party<\/span> jurisdictions<\/span> adequate to meet the same. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

D.<\/span> The Board shall keep accurate accounts of all receipts and disbursements. The receipts and disbursements of the Board shall be subject to the audit and accounting procedures established under its bylaws. However, all receipts and disbursements of funds handled by the Board shall be audited yearly by a qualified public accountant and the report of the audit shall be included in and become part of the annual report of the Board. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

E.<\/span> The accounts of the Board shall be open at any reasonable time for inspection.\n\t\t\tArticle IV. Advisory Committees.\n\t\t\tThe Board may establish such advisory and technical committees as it may deem necessary, membership on which to include but not be limited to private citizens, expert and lay personnel, representatives of industry, labor, commerce, agriculture, civic associations, medicine, education, voluntary health agencies, and officials of local, state and federal government, and may cooperate with and use the services of any such committees and the organizations which they represent in furthering any of its activities under this compact.\n\t\t\tArticle V. Powers.\n\t\t\tThe Board shall have power to: <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

A.<\/span> Ascertain and analyze on a continuing basis the position of the South with respect to energy, energy-related industries and environmental concerns. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

B.<\/span> Encourage the development, conservation, and responsible use of energy and energy-related facilities, installation, and products as part of a balanced economy and healthy environment. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

C.<\/span> Collect, correlate, and disseminate information relating to civilian uses of energy and energy-related materials<\/span> and products. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

D.<\/span> Conduct, or cooperate in conducting, programs of training for state and local personnel engaged in any aspect of <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

1.<\/span> Energy, environment, and application of energy, environmental, and related concerns to industry, medicine, or education or the promotion or regulation thereof. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

2.<\/span> The formulation or administration of measures designed to promote safety in any matter related to the development, use or disposal of energy and energy-related materials<\/span>, products, installations, or wastes. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

E.<\/span> Organize and conduct, or assist and cooperate in organizing and conducting, demonstrations of energy product, material<\/span>, or equipment use and disposal and of proper techniques or processes for the application of energy resources to the civilian economy or general welfare. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

F.<\/span> Undertake such nonregulatory functions with respect to sources of radiation as may promote the economic development and general welfare of the region. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

G.<\/span> Study industrial, health, safety, and other standards, laws<\/span>, codes, rules, regulations, and administrative practices in or related to energy and environmental fields. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

H.<\/span> Recommend such changes in, or amendments or additions to the laws<\/span>, codes, rules, regulations, administrative procedures and practices or ordinances<\/span> of the party<\/span> states in any of the fields of its interest and competence as in its judgment<\/span> may be appropriate. Any such recommendation shall be made through the appropriate state agency<\/span> with due consideration of the desirability of uniformity but shall also give appropriate weight to any special circumstance which may justify variations to meet local conditions. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

I.<\/span> Prepare, publish and distribute, (with or without charge) such reports, bulletins, newsletters or other material<\/span> as it deems appropriate. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

J.<\/span> Cooperate with the United States Department of Energy or any agency successor thereto, any other officer or agency of the United States, and any other governmental unit or agency or officer thereof, and with any private persons or agencies in any of the fields of its interests. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

K.<\/span> Act as licensee of the United States government or any party<\/span> state with respect to the conduct of any research activity requiring such license and operate such research facility or undertake any program pursuant thereto. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

L.<\/span> Ascertain from time to time such methods, practices, circumstances, and conditions as may bring about the prevention and control of energy and environmental incidents in the area comprising the party<\/span> states, to coordinate the nuclear, environmental and other energy-related incident prevention and control plans and the work relating thereto of the appropriate agencies of the party<\/span> states and to facilitate the rendering of aid by the party<\/span> states to each other in coping with energy and environmental incidents.\n\t\t\tThe Board may formulate and, in accordance with need from time to time, revise a regional plan or regional plans for coping with energy and environmental incidents within the territory of the party<\/span> states as a whole or within any subregion or subregions of the geographic area covered by this compact.\n\t\t\tArticle VI. Supplementary Agreements. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

A.<\/span> To the extent that the Board has not undertaken any activity or project which would be within its power under the provisions of Article V of this compact, any two or more of the party<\/span> states (acting by their duly constituted administrative officials) may enter into supplementary agreements for the undertaking and continuance<\/span> of such an activity or project. Any such agreement shall specify its purpose or purposes; its duration and the procedure for termination thereof or withdrawal therefrom; the method of financing and allocating the costs of the activity or project; and such other matters as may be necessary or appropriate. No such supplementary agreement entered into pursuant to this article shall become effective prior to its submission to and approval by the Board. The Board shall give such approval unless it finds that the supplementary agreement or the activity or project contemplated thereby is inconsistent with the provisions of this compact or a program or activity conducted by or participated in by the Board. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

B.<\/span> Unless all of the party<\/span> states participate in a supplementary agreement, any cost or costs thereof shall be borne separately by the states party<\/span> thereto. However, the Board may administer or otherwise assist in the operation of any supplementary agreement. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

C.<\/span> No party<\/span> to a supplementary agreement entered into pursuant to this article shall be relieved thereby of any obligation or duty assumed by said party<\/span> state under or pursuant to this compact, except that timely and proper performance of such obligation or duty by means of the supplementary agreement may be offered as performance pursuant to the compact.\n\t\t\tArticle VII. Other Laws<\/span> and Relationships.\n\t\t\tNothing in this compact shall be construed to: <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

A.<\/span> Permit or require any person or other entity to avoid or refuse compliance with any law<\/span>, rule, regulation, order<\/span> or ordinance<\/span> of a party<\/span> state or subdivision thereof now or hereafter made, enacted or in force. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

B.<\/span> Limit, diminish, or otherwise impair jurisdiction<\/span> exercised by the United States Department of Energy, any agency successor thereto, or any other federal department, agency or officer pursuant to and in conformity with any valid and operative act of Congress. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

C.<\/span> Alter the relations between and respective internal responsibilities of the government of a party<\/span> state and its subdivisions. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

D.<\/span> Permit or authorize the Board to exercise any regulatory authority or to own or operate any nuclear reactor for the generation of electric energy; nor shall the Board own or operate any facility or installation for industrial or commercial purposes.\n\t\t\tArticle VIII. Eligible Parties, Entry Into Force or Withdrawal. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

A.<\/span> Any or all of the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands shall be eligible to become party<\/span> to this compact. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

B.<\/span> As to any eligible party<\/span> state, this compact shall become effective when its legislature shall have enacted the same into law<\/span>; provided that it shall not become initially effective until enacted into law<\/span> by seven states. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

C.<\/span> Any party<\/span> state may withdraw from this compact by enacting a statute<\/span> repealing the same, but no such withdrawal shall become effective until the governor of the withdrawing state shall have sent formal notice in writing to the governor of each other party<\/span> state informing said governors of the action of the legislature in repealing the compact and declaring an intention to withdraw.\n\t\t\tArticle IX. Severability and Construction.\n\t\t\tThe provisions of this compact and of any supplementary agreement entered into hereunder shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this compact or such supplementary agreement is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any participating state or of the United States or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this compact or such supplementary agreement and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this compact or any supplementary agreement entered into hereunder shall be held contrary to the constitution of any state participating therein, the compact or such supplementary agreement shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining states and in full force and effect as to the state affected as to all severable matters. The provisions of this compact and of any supplementary agreement entered into pursuant hereto shall be liberally construed to effectuate the purposes thereof. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>","plain_text":" CODE OF VIRGINIA\n\nFORM OF COMPACT (\u00a7 2.2-5600)\n\nThe General Assembly hereby enacts, and the Commonwealth of Virginia hereby\nenters into, the Southern States Energy Compact with any and all states legally\njoining therein according to its terms, in the form substantially as follows:\n\t\tArticle I. Policy and Purpose.\n\t\tThe party states recognize that the proper employment and conservation of\nenergy and employment of energy-related facilities, materials, and products,\nwithin the context of a responsible regard for the environment can assist\nsubstantially in the industrialization of the South and the development of a\nbalanced economy for the region. They also recognize that optimum benefit from\nthe acquisition of energy resources and facilities require systematic\nencouragement, guidance, and assistance from the party states on a cooperative\nbasis. It is the policy of the party states to undertake such cooperation on a\ncontinuing basis; it is the purpose of this compact to provide the instruments\nand framework for such a cooperative effort to improve the economy of the South\nand contribute to the individual and community well-being of the region’s\npeople.\n\t\tArticle II. The Board.\n\nA. There is created an agency of the party states to be known as the\n“Southern States Energy Board” (hereinafter called the Board). The\nBoard shall be composed of three members from each party state, one of whom\nshall be appointed or designated in each state to represent the Governor, the\nState Senate and the State House of Representatives, respectively. Each member\nshall be designated or appointed in accordance with the law of the state which\nhe represents and serving and subject to removal in accordance with such law.\nAny member of the Board may provide for the discharge of his duties and the\nperformance of his functions thereon (either for the duration of his membership\nor for any lesser period of time) by a deputy or assistant, if the laws of his\nstate make specific provisions therefor. The federal government may be\nrepresented without vote if provision is made by federal law for such\nrepresentation.\n\nB. Each party state shall be entitled to one vote on the Board, to be determined\nby majority vote of each member or member’s representative from the party\nstate present and voting on any question. No action of the Board shall be\nbinding unless taken at a meeting at which a majority of all party states are\nrepresented and unless a majority of the total number of votes on the Board are\ncast in favor thereof.\n\nC. The Board shall have a seal.\n\nD. The Board shall elect annually, from among its members, a chairman, a\nvice-chairman, and a treasurer. The Board shall appoint an Executive Director\nwho shall serve at its pleasure and who shall also act as Secretary, and who,\ntogether with the Treasurer, shall be bonded in such amounts as the Board may\nrequire.\n\nE. The Executive Director, with the approval of the Board, shall appoint and\nremove or discharge such personnel as may be necessary for the performance of\nthe Board’s functions irrespective of the civil service, personnel or\nother merit system laws of any of the party states.\n\nF. The Board may establish and maintain, independently or in conjunction with\nany one or more of the party states, a suitable retirement system for its\nfull-time employees. Employees of the Board shall be eligible for social\nsecurity coverage in respect of old age and survivors insurance provided that\nthe Board takes such steps as may be necessary pursuant to federal law to\nparticipate in such program of insurance as a governmental agency or unit. The\nBoard may establish and maintain or participate in such additional programs of\nemployee benefits as may be appropriate.\n\nG. The Board may borrow, accept, or contract for the services of personnel from\nany state or the United States or any subdivision or agency thereof, from any\ninterstate agency, or from any institution, person, firm or corporation.\n\nH. The Board may accept for any of its purposes and functions under this compact\nany and all donations, and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials, and\nservices (conditional or otherwise) from any state or the United States or any\nsubdivision or agency thereof, or interstate agency, or from any institution,\nperson, firm, or corporation, and may receive, utilize and dispose of the same.\n\nI. The Board may establish and maintain such facilities as may be necessary for\nthe transacting of its business. The Board may acquire, hold, and convey real\nand personal property and any interest therein.\n\nJ. The Board shall adopt bylaws, rules, and regulations for the conduct of its\nbusiness, and shall have the power to amend and rescind these bylaws, rules, and\nregulations. The Board shall publish its bylaws, rules and regulations in\nconvenient form and shall file a copy thereof, and shall also file a copy of any\namendment thereto, with the appropriate agency or officer in each of the party\nstates.\n\nK. The Board annually shall make to the governor of each party state, a report\ncovering the activities of the Board for the preceding year, and embodying such\nrecommendations as may have been adopted by the Board, which report shall be\ntransmitted to the legislature of said state. The Board may issue such\nadditional reports as it may deem desirable.\n\t\t\tArticle III. Finances.\n\nA. The Board shall submit to the executive head or designated officer or\nofficers of each party state a budget of its estimated expenditures for such\nperiod as may be required by the laws of that jurisdiction for presentation to\nthe legislature thereof.\n\nB. Each of the Board’s budgets of estimated expenditures shall contain\nspecific recommendations of the amount or amounts to be appropriated by each of\nthe party states. One-half of the total amount of each budget of estimated\nexpenditures shall be apportioned among the party states in equal shares; one\nquarter of each such budget shall be apportioned among the party states in\naccordance with the ratio of their populations to the total population of the\nentire group of party states based on the last decennial federal census; and one\nquarter of each such budget shall be apportioned among the party states on the\nbasis of the relative average per capita income of the inhabitants in each of\nthe party states based on the latest computations published by the federal\ncensus-taking agency. Subject to appropriation by their respective legislatures,\nthe Board shall be provided with such funds by each of the party states as are\nnecessary to provide the means of establishing and maintaining facilities, a\nstaff of personnel, and such activities as may be necessary to fulfill the\npowers and duties imposed upon and entrusted to the Board.\n\nC. The Board may meet any of its obligations in whole or in part with funds\navailable to it under Article II (h) of this compact, provided that the Board\ntakes specific action setting aside such funds prior to the incurring of any\nobligation to be met in whole or in part in this manner. Except where the Board\nmakes use of funds available to it under Article II H, the Board shall not incur\nany obligation prior to the allotment of funds by the party jurisdictions\nadequate to meet the same.\n\nD. The Board shall keep accurate accounts of all receipts and disbursements. The\nreceipts and disbursements of the Board shall be subject to the audit and\naccounting procedures established under its bylaws. However, all receipts and\ndisbursements of funds handled by the Board shall be audited yearly by a\nqualified public accountant and the report of the audit shall be included in and\nbecome part of the annual report of the Board.\n\nE. The accounts of the Board shall be open at any reasonable time for\ninspection.\n\t\t\tArticle IV. Advisory Committees.\n\t\t\tThe Board may establish such advisory and technical committees as it may deem\nnecessary, membership on which to include but not be limited to private\ncitizens, expert and lay personnel, representatives of industry, labor,\ncommerce, agriculture, civic associations, medicine, education, voluntary health\nagencies, and officials of local, state and federal government, and may\ncooperate with and use the services of any such committees and the organizations\nwhich they represent in furthering any of its activities under this compact.\n\t\t\tArticle V. Powers.\n\t\t\tThe Board shall have power to:\n\nA. Ascertain and analyze on a continuing basis the position of the South with\nrespect to energy, energy-related industries and environmental concerns.\n\nB. Encourage the development, conservation, and responsible use of energy and\nenergy-related facilities, installation, and products as part of a balanced\neconomy and healthy environment.\n\nC. Collect, correlate, and disseminate information relating to civilian uses of\nenergy and energy-related materials and products.\n\nD. Conduct, or cooperate in conducting, programs of training for state and local\npersonnel engaged in any aspect of\n\n 1. Energy, environment, and application of energy, environmental, and related\n concerns to industry, medicine, or education or the promotion or regulation\n thereof.\n\n 2. The formulation or administration of measures designed to promote safety in\n any matter related to the development, use or disposal of energy and\n energy-related materials, products, installations, or wastes.\n\nE. Organize and conduct, or assist and cooperate in organizing and conducting,\ndemonstrations of energy product, material, or equipment use and disposal and of\nproper techniques or processes for the application of energy resources to the\ncivilian economy or general welfare.\n\nF. Undertake such nonregulatory functions with respect to sources of radiation\nas may promote the economic development and general welfare of the region.\n\nG. Study industrial, health, safety, and other standards, laws, codes, rules,\nregulations, and administrative practices in or related to energy and\nenvironmental fields.\n\nH. Recommend such changes in, or amendments or additions to the laws, codes,\nrules, regulations, administrative procedures and practices or ordinances of the\nparty states in any of the fields of its interest and competence as in its\njudgment may be appropriate. Any such recommendation shall be made through the\nappropriate state agency with due consideration of the desirability of\nuniformity but shall also give appropriate weight to any special circumstance\nwhich may justify variations to meet local conditions.\n\nI. Prepare, publish and distribute, (with or without charge) such reports,\nbulletins, newsletters or other material as it deems appropriate.\n\nJ. Cooperate with the United States Department of Energy or any agency successor\nthereto, any other officer or agency of the United States, and any other\ngovernmental unit or agency or officer thereof, and with any private persons or\nagencies in any of the fields of its interests.\n\nK. Act as licensee of the United States government or any party state with\nrespect to the conduct of any research activity requiring such license and\noperate such research facility or undertake any program pursuant thereto.\n\nL. Ascertain from time to time such methods, practices, circumstances, and\nconditions as may bring about the prevention and control of energy and\nenvironmental incidents in the area comprising the party states, to coordinate\nthe nuclear, environmental and other energy-related incident prevention and\ncontrol plans and the work relating thereto of the appropriate agencies of the\nparty states and to facilitate the rendering of aid by the party states to each\nother in coping with energy and environmental incidents.\n\t\t\tThe Board may formulate and, in accordance with need from time to time,\nrevise a regional plan or regional plans for coping with energy and\nenvironmental incidents within the territory of the party states as a whole or\nwithin any subregion or subregions of the geographic area covered by this\ncompact.\n\t\t\tArticle VI. Supplementary Agreements.\n\nA. To the extent that the Board has not undertaken any activity or project which\nwould be within its power under the provisions of Article V of this compact, any\ntwo or more of the party states (acting by their duly constituted administrative\nofficials) may enter into supplementary agreements for the undertaking and\ncontinuance of such an activity or project. Any such agreement shall specify its\npurpose or purposes; its duration and the procedure for termination thereof or\nwithdrawal therefrom; the method of financing and allocating the costs of the\nactivity or project; and such other matters as may be necessary or appropriate.\nNo such supplementary agreement entered into pursuant to this article shall\nbecome effective prior to its submission to and approval by the Board. The Board\nshall give such approval unless it finds that the supplementary agreement or the\nactivity or project contemplated thereby is inconsistent with the provisions of\nthis compact or a program or activity conducted by or participated in by the\nBoard.\n\nB. Unless all of the party states participate in a supplementary agreement, any\ncost or costs thereof shall be borne separately by the states party thereto.\nHowever, the Board may administer or otherwise assist in the operation of any\nsupplementary agreement.\n\nC. No party to a supplementary agreement entered into pursuant to this article\nshall be relieved thereby of any obligation or duty assumed by said party state\nunder or pursuant to this compact, except that timely and proper performance of\nsuch obligation or duty by means of the supplementary agreement may be offered\nas performance pursuant to the compact.\n\t\t\tArticle VII. Other Laws and Relationships.\n\t\t\tNothing in this compact shall be construed to:\n\nA. Permit or require any person or other entity to avoid or refuse compliance\nwith any law, rule, regulation, order or ordinance of a party state or\nsubdivision thereof now or hereafter made, enacted or in force.\n\nB. Limit, diminish, or otherwise impair jurisdiction exercised by the United\nStates Department of Energy, any agency successor thereto, or any other federal\ndepartment, agency or officer pursuant to and in conformity with any valid and\noperative act of Congress.\n\nC. Alter the relations between and respective internal responsibilities of the\ngovernment of a party state and its subdivisions.\n\nD. Permit or authorize the Board to exercise any regulatory authority or to own\nor operate any nuclear reactor for the generation of electric energy; nor shall\nthe Board own or operate any facility or installation for industrial or\ncommercial purposes.\n\t\t\tArticle VIII. Eligible Parties, Entry Into Force or Withdrawal.\n\nA. Any or all of the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia,\nKentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma,\nSouth Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, the Commonwealth of\nPuerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands shall be eligible to become\nparty to this compact.\n\nB. As to any eligible party state, this compact shall become effective when its\nlegislature shall have enacted the same into law; provided that it shall not\nbecome initially effective until enacted into law by seven states.\n\nC. Any party state may withdraw from this compact by enacting a statute\nrepealing the same, but no such withdrawal shall become effective until the\ngovernor of the withdrawing state shall have sent formal notice in writing to\nthe governor of each other party state informing said governors of the action of\nthe legislature in repealing the compact and declaring an intention to withdraw.\n\t\t\tArticle IX. Severability and Construction.\n\t\t\tThe provisions of this compact and of any supplementary agreement entered\ninto hereunder shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence or\nprovision of this compact or such supplementary agreement is declared to be\ncontrary to the constitution of any participating state or of the United States\nor the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance\nis held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this compact or such\nsupplementary agreement and the applicability thereof to any government, agency,\nperson or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this compact or any\nsupplementary agreement entered into hereunder shall be held contrary to the\nconstitution of any state participating therein, the compact or such\nsupplementary agreement shall remain in full force and effect as to the\nremaining states and in full force and effect as to the state affected as to all\nseverable matters. The provisions of this compact and of any supplementary\nagreement entered into pursuant hereto shall be liberally construed to\neffectuate the purposes thereof.\n\nHISTORY: 1962, c. 364, \u00a7 2-306; 1966, c. 677, \u00a7 2.1-336; 1979, c. 295; 2001,\nc. 844.","edition":{"id":1,"name":"2025","slug":"2025","date_created":"2026-06-21 22:39:22","date_modified":"2026-06-21 22:39:22","current":1,"order_by":1,"last_import":null}}