This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to impose strict compliance requirements on the West Virginia Parkways Authority regarding the increase of tolls, rents, fees, or charges associated with parkway and economic development projects. It establishes that any proposed increase must be preceded by public hearings held in each county affected by the West Virginia Turnpike, with at least 14 days' notice. During these hearings, the Parkways Authority must justify the necessity of the increase to address operational or maintenance needs. Additionally, the bill mandates that all tolls and fees are subject to full and transparent auditing by the Joint Committee on Government and Finance upon request.

Furthermore, the bill requires that contracts related to the operation and maintenance of facilities along the West Virginia Turnpike be renewed on a competitive bid basis. It stipulates that any proposals for new projects must be publicly available, and a public hearing must be conducted before entering into contracts for economic development or tourism projects. The Parkways Authority is also required to make findings of fact before making decisions on such projects, ensuring that all relevant studies and documents are accessible for public inspection.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17-16A-13
Engrossed Version: 17-16A-13