The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by establishing a new chapter dedicated to wireless tower facilities and infrastructure. It outlines a permitting framework for the siting and colocation of these facilities, defining key terms such as "siting application," "colocation," and "deployment." The legislation specifies timelines for reviewing siting applications, indicating that if a reviewing authority does not act within the designated timeframe, the application will be automatically granted. It also streamlines the approval process for modifications to existing wireless facilities that do not significantly alter their physical dimensions.

Furthermore, the bill adopts the current TIA 222 Standard of the International Building Code as the applicable construction code for wireless infrastructure and introduces new legal language that allows applicants and reviewing authorities to seek remedies in court. It preserves the existing West Virginia Small Wireless Facilities Development Act and other related laws, ensuring they remain unaffected by the new provisions. The bill is set to take effect 90 days after passage and has been certified by the Clerks of both the House of Delegates and the Senate, having originated in the House and completed the necessary legislative processes for the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 31H-3-1, 31H-3-2, 31H-3-3, 31H-3-4, 31H-3-5, 31H-3-6
Committee Substitute: 31J-1-1, 31J-1-2, 31J-1-3, 31J-1-4, 31J-1-5, 31J-1-6
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 31J-1-1, 31J-1-2, 31J-1-3, 31J-1-4, 31J-1-5, 31J-1-6
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 31J-1-1, 31J-1-2, 31J-1-3, 31J-1-4, 31J-1-5, 31J-1-6