This bill aims to amend the Municipal Home Rule Program in West Virginia by prohibiting municipalities that participate in this program from imposing new fees on businesses that are already subject to existing taxes, such as the municipality sales tax, hotel motel tax, and fees for fire or emergency services. The bill allows businesses to voluntarily remit any new taxes or fees to the municipality through an agreement. Additionally, it establishes that municipalities may not enact new fees on businesses that are already paying these existing taxes and fees, thereby protecting local businesses from additional financial burdens.

Furthermore, the bill makes several changes to the structure and operations of the Municipal Home Rule Board, including the continuation of the board and the establishment of a special revenue account fund for its operations. It also outlines the process for municipalities to participate in the program, including the requirement for public hearings and the submission of written plans detailing the specific laws or regulations that hinder their operations. The bill emphasizes the need for municipalities to comply with existing laws and regulations while providing them with the flexibility to amend their plans and ordinances as necessary.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-1-5a