This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to establish new regulations regarding fees and charges for fire services provided by municipalities. It specifically requires that any fire fee or charge imposed on individuals or businesses located outside the municipality must receive prior approval from the county commission. Additionally, the bill introduces a process for residents and businesses outside the municipality to challenge such fees, allowing them to protest the ordinance if 30 percent of qualified voters sign a petition within 45 days of the notice requirement. If the protest is successful, the ordinance cannot take effect until it is ratified by a majority vote in a primary or general election.

The bill also includes provisions that prevent residents or businesses outside the municipality from being required to pay fire protection fees imposed by both the municipality and the county commission simultaneously. This ensures that individuals are not double-billed for the same service. The amendments aim to enhance transparency and accountability in the imposition of fire service fees, ensuring that affected parties have a voice in the decision-making process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 7-17-12, 8-13-13