The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by creating a new chapter dedicated to the siting and colocation of wireless tower facilities and infrastructure. It establishes definitions for key terms and outlines the conditions and timelines for permitting applications, including specific "shot clock" periods for reviewing authorities to act on siting applications. If authorities fail to act within these timeframes, the application will be automatically deemed granted. The bill also includes provisions for civil penalties, application fees, and mandates the adoption of a construction code based on the TIA 222 Standard of the International Building Code.

Additionally, the legislation clarifies the modification process for existing wireless facilities, ensuring that applications for modifications that do not significantly alter the physical dimensions of the facilities are approved. It preserves the West Virginia Small Wireless Facilities Development Act and other existing laws, maintaining regulatory oversight while streamlining the permitting process. The bill introduces new legal language allowing applicants and reviewing authorities to bring claims related to the chapter to any court of competent jurisdiction and is set to take effect 90 days after passage.

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