The bill aims to establish a new framework for designating "Infrastructure Ready Jurisdictions" in West Virginia by adding a new article to the Code of West Virginia. Political subdivisions that either refrain from enacting or repeal certain permitting requirements can apply for this designation through the Department of Economic Development. The Department is authorized to create rules for the certification process, ensuring that only permitting requirements that delay or increase the cost of infrastructure projects are considered barriers to certification.

Additionally, the bill provides a significant incentive for certified jurisdictions by allowing grant applications for infrastructure projects within these areas to receive an additional five percent preferential scoring on all permissible grants. However, this preferential scoring is not available to projects located in uncertified municipalities, even if they are surrounded by certified counties. This legislation is designed to streamline the permitting process and encourage infrastructure development in designated areas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5B-2P-1, 5B-2P-2, 5B-2P-3
Committee Substitute: 5B-2P-1, 5B-2P-2, 5B-2P-3
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 5B-2P-1, 5B-2P-2, 5B-2P-3