The proposed bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new section, 22C-9-7b, which mandates that operators file a "Declaration of Pooled Unit" with the clerk of the county commission within 60 days of receiving a drilling permit. This declaration must include detailed information such as the name of the unit, API numbers and names of the wells, the location of the unit, a plat with coordinates, and various identifying details for each mineral and surface parcel involved. Additionally, if a wellbore penetrates multiple units, a declaration is required that includes specific information about the traversing wells and their production allocations.

The bill also establishes a process for lessors or royalty owners to request information from operators regarding acreage calculations and provides a mechanism for them to address non-compliance by operators. If an operator fails to comply with the requirements, the lessor or royalty owner can send a written request for compliance, and if the operator does not rectify the issue within 60 days, the lessor or royalty owner may initiate a civil action to enforce compliance and recover associated legal costs. The act is set to take effect 120 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22C-9-7b