This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to grant county commissions the authority to lease, rent, or permit the use of county-owned wireless towers to various entities, provided they meet specific criteria. The bill outlines that entities leasing these towers must not be associated with foreign adversaries or individuals on designated terrorist lists, and they must refrain from engaging in unconstitutional surveillance activities. Additionally, any technology used must not threaten critical infrastructure, particularly in relation to voting and election management systems.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits county commissions from charging public safety operations, the West Virginia Division of Highways, or other state agencies for the use of these wireless towers, as long as they meet the same requirements as other applicants. The bill also allows county commissions to charge fees for other uses of county properties and establishes guidelines for the allocation of these properties, including the potential formation of a panel to oversee decisions regarding their use.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 7-1-3k