This bill aims to enhance the management and protection of public water systems in West Virginia by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions. It removes the previously established Public Water System Supply Study Commission and replaces it with a section dedicated to definitions relevant to public water systems. The bill mandates the creation of a water level status plan for aboveground water storage tanks, requiring owners to provide timely updates on tank levels and to utilize telemetry systems where feasible. Additionally, it requires public water systems to issue quarterly operational and financial reports, participate in Open Checkbooks, and undergo independent reviews if they receive multiple formal complaints.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of communication during service disruptions by requiring public service districts to assign a communication officer responsible for timely updates to customers. It also addresses the shortage of qualified water plant workers by directing the Public Service Commission to develop a plan that promotes water careers in educational institutions and explores financial incentives to attract skilled workers to the field. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve transparency, operational efficiency, and workforce availability within West Virginia's public water systems.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22-31-2, 22-31-3, 22-31-4, 22-31-5, 22-31-6