The bill amends the Code of West Virginia, specifically section 22-11-8, to clarify that political subdivisions administering water pollution permits under delegation from the Department of Environmental Protection cannot impose standards or requirements that are more stringent than existing federal or state regulations. This change aims to ensure consistency in water pollution control measures across different jurisdictions within the state. The bill also introduces a provision that allows for limited exceptions to this rule.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing language regarding the issuance of permits for discharges into state waters. It specifies that while permits must meet applicable state and federal water quality standards, the standards themselves may not be incorporated wholesale as effluent standards in the permits. The bill also emphasizes the necessity of holding a valid permit for various activities related to the discharge of pollutants, while allowing for the treatment of multiple outlets as a single unit for permitting purposes.

Statutes affected:
Originating in Committee: 22-11-8
Engrossed Version: 22-11-8