The bill introduced on January 25, 2023, seeks to amend the Code of West Virginia by establishing a new article that delineates the powers and regulations of the Public Service Commission regarding railroads. It provides a comprehensive definition of "railroad" and grants the commission authority to regulate various aspects of railroad operations, including passenger and property transportation, management inquiries, and compliance with interstate commerce laws. The bill mandates railroads to submit annual statements, disclose specific contracts, and maintain adequate service and facilities. It also emphasizes the need for railroads to file schedules of rates and charges, maintain infrastructure, and report accidents, while imposing penalties for noncompliance with commission orders.

Additionally, the legislation enhances safety regulations by granting the commission oversight of private tracks used by common carriers and requiring annual inspections of bridges. It establishes strict penalties for safety violations, including fines and potential imprisonment for serious offenses. The bill allows damage claims against railroads to be submitted to the commission if unresolved within 60 days and mandates compliance with commission orders regarding safety measures. Overall, the bill aims to improve the regulatory framework governing railroads in West Virginia, ensuring accountability, safety, and efficient operations within the industry.

Statutes affected:
Committee Substitute: 24-2G-1, 24-2G-2, 24-2G-3, 24-2G-4, 24-2G-5, 24-2G-6, 24-2G-7, 24-2G-8, 24-2G-9, 24-2G-10, 24-2G-11, 24-2G-12, 24-2G-13, 24-2G-14, 24-2G-15, 24-2G-16, 24-2G-17, 24-2G-18, 24-2G-19, 24-2G-20, 24-2G-21, 24-2G-22, 24-2G-23, 24-2G-24, 24-2G-25, 24-2G-26, 24-2G-27, 24-2G-28, 24-2G-29, 24-2G-30, 24-2G-31, 24-2G-32, 24-2G-33, 24-2G-34, 24-2G-35, 24-2G-36, 24-2G-37, 24-2G-38, 24-2G-39, 24-2G-40, 24-2G-41
Introduced Version: 24-2G-1, 24-2G-2, 24-2G-3, 24-2G-4, 24-2G-5, 24-2G-6, 24-2G-7, 24-2G-8, 24-2G-9, 24-2G-10, 24-2G-11, 24-2G-12, 24-2G-13, 24-2G-14, 24-2G-15, 24-2G-16, 24-2G-17, 24-2G-18, 24-2G-19, 24-2G-20, 24-2G-21, 24-2G-22, 24-2G-23, 24-2G-24, 24-2G-25, 24-2G-26, 24-2G-27, 24-2G-28, 24-2G-29, 24-2G-30, 24-2G-31, 24-2G-32, 24-2G-33, 24-2G-34, 24-2G-35, 24-2G-36, 24-2G-37, 24-2G-38, 24-2G-39, 24-2G-40, 24-2G-41