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 these entities determine the costs associated with extending services and the customer’s financial responsibility for these costs, in accordance with the Public Service Commission's rules. If potential customers wish to proceed with the service extension, they must provide an upfront contribution for their share of the costs. Additionally, if customers request that the municipality or public service district apply for grant funding to cover the total costs of the extension, they must also cover the application costs.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if grants are awarded that fully cover the costs of extending services to unserved potential customers, the municipality or public service district is obligated to extend service to these customers after they have paid any required fees. The grant funds will be used to reimburse contributors for their upfront contributions, including application costs, ensuring that reimbursements do not exceed the original contribution amount. This legislation aims to facilitate the expansion of essential water and sewer services while providing a structured approach to funding and cost-sharing between municipalities, public service districts, and potential customers.

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