The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to impose strict compliance requirements on the West Virginia Parkways Authority regarding the increase of tolls, rents, fees, or charges associated with parkway and economic development projects. It stipulates that any proposed increase must be preceded by public hearings held in each county affected by the West Virginia Turnpike, with at least 14 days' notice. During these hearings, the Parkways Authority must demonstrate the necessity of the increase for operational or maintenance needs. Additionally, the bill mandates that all tolls and fees are subject to full and transparent auditing by the Joint Committee on Government and Finance upon request.

Furthermore, the bill requires that contracts related to the operation and maintenance of facilities along the West Virginia Turnpike be renewed on a competitive bid basis. Any proposals for new projects must be publicly available, and citizens are given a 45-day period to express their opinions. Public hearings must also be held for economic development or tourism projects, with a minimum of 20 days' notice. The Parkways Authority is tasked with making findings of fact before making decisions on these projects, ensuring that all relevant materials are accessible for public inspection.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17-16A-13
Engrossed Version: 17-16A-13