This bill proposes amendments to section 6-9-8 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, aimed at increasing the financial cap on audits conducted for municipalities. Specifically, the bill raises the maximum allowable cost for services rendered to a Class IV municipality from $3,000 to $5,000. Additionally, it allows the chief inspector to charge up to an extra $5,000 for costs incurred related to utility or park systems owned by Class IV municipalities, as well as for each police and fire pension and relief fund maintained by the municipality. The bill also clarifies that if a municipality is required to undergo a single audit by federal agencies, the cost limitations do not apply.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a revolving fund for the chief inspector's office to facilitate timely payments to deputy inspectors and assistants. This fund will be supported by a legislative appropriation of $25,000, along with payments received for services and interest earned on the fund's balance. The bill also introduces a special fund known as the "State Auditors Public Integrity and Fraud Fund," which will be used to enhance fraud detection and enforcement efforts related to audits and investigations. Overall, the bill aims to improve the financial framework surrounding municipal audits and enhance accountability in public office.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 6-9-8