This bill proposes amendments to the Code of West Virginia, specifically targeting the management of fire departments within counties. It grants administrative control of fire departments to the county commission when these departments are not already under the control of a municipal corporation. Additionally, the bill seeks to repeal existing provisions related to county fire boards, effectively abolishing them. The new language inserted into the law clarifies that the county commission will be responsible for the administration of fire departments within county borders, ensuring a streamlined governance structure for fire services.

The bill also includes provisions for the establishment and operation of fire prevention units, allowing county commissions to levy for and maintain fire stations, as well as provide financial aid to public fire protection facilities. It outlines the authority of county commissions to charge reasonable fees for firefighting services and establishes guidelines for fee collection and payment responsibilities. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the efficiency and oversight of fire services at the county level while eliminating the existing county fire boards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 7-1-3, 7-1-3d, 7-17-1, 7-17-2, 7-17-3, 7-17-4, 7-17-5, 7-17-6, 7-17-7, 7-17-8, 7-17-9, 7-17-10, 7-17-11, 7-17-12, 7-17-13, 7-17-14, 7-17-15, 7-17-16, 7-17-17, 7-17-18, 7-17-19, 7-17-20