This bill amends sections 7-17-12 and 8-13-13 of the Code of West Virginia to establish new regulations regarding fees for municipality-provided fire services. It requires that any fire fee or charge imposed by a municipality on individuals or businesses located outside its boundaries must receive approval from the county commission. Additionally, the bill provides a process for county residents 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 will not take effect until ratified by a majority vote in a primary or general election.

The bill also includes provisions that prevent residents or businesses outside a municipality from being required to pay fire protection fees imposed by both the municipality and the county commission simultaneously. Furthermore, it removes previous restrictions on imposing new fire protection fees effective after June 30, 2024, while ensuring that any changes to existing fees must follow the outlined procedures for public approval. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the imposition of fire service fees, particularly for those living outside municipal boundaries.

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