The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 24-2-4i, which establishes a process for publicly owned water and sewer utilities to implement annual rate increases based on the United States Department of Labor Statistics Water and Sewerage Maintenance Index. Effective July 1, 2025, these utilities can increase rates once each year without needing to file an application for approval, seek municipal ordinance passage, or obtain county commission approval, provided the increase does not exceed the percentage increase in the Index over a specified time period. Utilities must also file a revised tariff and provide notice as directed by the commission.

Additionally, the bill allows for multiple annual indexed rate increases before a utility must seek further approval under existing provisions. It specifies that the commission can challenge rate increases for smaller utilities if they exceed the Index increase, and it outlines the process for review by county commissions or city councils for larger utilities. The commission is tasked with issuing a general order each year to determine the maximum allowable rate increase based on the Index. The bill also includes provisions to ensure that any approved rate increases are not applied retroactively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 24-1-1
Committee Substitute: 24-2-4i
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 24-2-4i