This bill seeks to amend and reenact various sections of the West Virginia Code concerning the administration of the state's drinking water treatment revolving fund and the operations of the Water Development Authority. It introduces new definitions, including "public utility" and "non-governmental public utility," to clarify the entities under the Public Service Commission's jurisdiction. The bill enhances the authority of the Water Development Authority to provide loans and grants to both governmental and non-governmental public utilities, thereby improving access to funding for public water utilities. It also outlines the rights and remedies for enforcing loan agreements and emphasizes the need for maintaining adequate cash and working capital for funding.

Additionally, the bill establishes new provisions for loan agreements with non-governmental public utilities, allowing tailored terms based on their unique characteristics. It creates a Distressed Utilities Account to fund the acquisition and repair of failing water and wastewater systems, with provisions for grants covering up to 100% of repair costs. The legislation also introduces a Critical Needs and Failing Systems Sub Account within the Infrastructure Fund to address urgent water and wastewater service needs. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the regulatory framework for utilities, promote competition, and ensure the delivery of essential services to consumers while improving the quality and reliability of water services in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22-36-1, 22-36-5, 22C-1-2, 22C-1-3, 22C-1-5, 22C-1-6, 22C-1-17, 22C-1-22, 22C-2-1, 22C-2-5, 24-1-1, 24-2H-8, 31-15A-4, 31-15A-9, 31-15A-17c, 22C-1-7a