This bill amends several sections of the Code of West Virginia to establish requirements for municipalities and public service districts regarding the extension of water and sewer services to potential customers. It mandates that when potential customers apply for service, the municipality or public service district must determine the cost of extending service and the customer’s financial responsibility for that cost. If potential customers wish to proceed, they must provide an upfront contribution for their share of the extension costs. Additionally, if they request the municipality or district to apply for grant funding to cover the total costs, they must also cover the application costs.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if grants are awarded that cover the total costs for extending service to unserved customers, the municipality or public service district is required to extend service after the potential customers have paid any necessary fees. The grant funds will be used to reimburse these customers for their contributions, including application costs, in accordance with the rules set by the Public Service Commission. The bill includes new provisions that outline these processes and responsibilities, ensuring that municipalities and public service districts are accountable for extending services to potential customers who are willing to contribute financially.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-19-17, 16-13-22a, 16-13A-24
Committee Substitute: 8-19-17, 8-20-16, 16-13-22a, 16-13A-24
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 8-19-17, 8-20-16, 16-13-22a, 16-13A-24