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 fully cover the extension costs, the municipality or public service district is obligated to extend service to those potential customers after they have paid any required fees. The grant funds will also be used to reimburse contributors for their upfront contributions, including application costs, in accordance with the rules set by the Public Service Commission. This legislation aims to facilitate the expansion of water and sewer services to unserved areas while ensuring that the financial responsibilities are clearly defined and managed.

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