This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to impose strict and non-discretionary procedures that the West Virginia Parkways Authority must follow before increasing tolls, rents, fees, or charges. Specifically, it requires that any proposed increase must be preceded by public hearings held in each county that the West Virginia Turnpike traverses, with at least 14 days' notice. During these hearings, the Parkways Authority must demonstrate the necessity of the increase to address operational or maintenance needs. Additionally, all tolls, rents, fees, and charges will be subject to full and transparent auditing by the Joint Committee on Government and Finance upon request.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that contracts related to the operation and maintenance of facilities along the West Virginia Turnpike be renewed on a competitive bid basis. Any proposals for new projects must be publicly available, and a public hearing must be held with at least 20 days' notice before any contracts for economic development or tourism projects can be finalized. The Parkways Authority is also required to make written findings of fact before making decisions on proposed projects, ensuring that all relevant studies and documents are accessible for public inspection.

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