The bill aims to establish a new designation called "Infrastructure Ready Jurisdictions" within the Code of West Virginia. It introduces a process for political subdivisions to apply for this designation by refraining from enacting or repealing certain permitting requirements. The Department of Economic Development is authorized to create rules for the certification process, ensuring that only permitting requirements that delay or increase the cost of infrastructure projects can prevent certification.

Additionally, the bill provides benefits for certified jurisdictions, including a five percent preferential scoring on grant applications for infrastructure projects, which can enhance the total score beyond the maximum achievable score. However, this preferential scoring is not available for projects located in uncertified municipalities, even if they are surrounded by certified counties. This legislation is designed to encourage infrastructure development by streamlining permitting processes and providing financial incentives for projects within designated jurisdictions.

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