The 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. It prohibits these entities from being associated with foreign adversaries or engaging in unconstitutional surveillance activities. Additionally, the bill mandates that any technology used must not threaten critical infrastructure and must utilize non-compromised cybersecurity measures. County commissions are also required to conduct due diligence before permitting use of the towers and are protected from liability for any damages resulting from non-compliance by the entities.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that county commissions cannot levy charges for the use of these towers by public safety operations, the West Virginia Division of Highways, or other state agencies, although they can recover actual and reasonable costs associated with the installation and operation of equipment on the towers. The legislation emphasizes the importance of ensuring that any permitted use aligns with the established requirements, thereby enhancing the security and integrity of county-owned wireless infrastructure.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 7-1-3k
Committee Substitute: 7-1-3k
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 7-1-3k