The proposed bill aims to establish a One Stop Shop Permitting Program in West Virginia, which will streamline the process of obtaining and renewing permits, licenses, and business registrations. It introduces a Permitting Dashboard that will serve as a centralized online platform for applicants to access necessary information, submit applications, and track their status. The Secretary of the Department of Administration is tasked with coordinating the implementation of this program, which includes defining key terms, identifying participating agencies, and establishing fees for permits and expedited processing. The bill also mandates that permitting agencies report on their processing times and outlines a refund requirement for late permit processing, effective from January 1, 2027.

Additionally, the bill allows for the continued use of traditional application methods until July 1, 2027, after which the Permitting Dashboard will become the exclusive means for permit applications, with certain exceptions for individuals with disabilities. The Secretary is authorized to create legislative rules to further implement the program, including setting deadlines for application processing and establishing fees for expedited services. The bill emphasizes the importance of transparency and efficiency in the permitting process, aiming to make West Virginia's system one of the most business-friendly in the nation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5A-13-1, 5A-13-2, 5A-13-3, 5A-13-4, 5A-13-5, 5A-13-6
Committee Substitute: 5A-13-1, 5A-13-2, 5A-13-3, 5A-13-4, 5A-13-5, 5A-13-6
Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute: 5A-13-1, 5A-13-2, 5A-13-3, 5A-13-4, 5A-13-5, 5A-13-6, 29A-3-1