This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to streamline the permit application process for telecommunications facilities seeking to install broadband infrastructure in rights-of-way controlled by the Division of Highways, particularly when projects span multiple districts. It allows applicants to submit a single unified application to the division headquarters in Charleston, rather than separate applications for each district. The bill also establishes a cap on permit fees, stating they cannot exceed $10,000 or one percent of the total project cost, whichever is less, and outlines how these fees can be distributed among the affected districts.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the Division of Highways must respond to permit applications within specified timeframes, with any application not acted upon within 60 days considered approved. It also requires the division to notify applicants of any deficiencies in their applications and provides a mechanism for resubmission and approval. The bill emphasizes the applicant's responsibility for environmental compliance and mandates the division to provide necessary information and resources to facilitate the permitting process. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the efficiency and clarity of the permitting process for broadband installations in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17-2E-3