This bill amends several sections of the Code of West Virginia to establish requirements for municipalities and public service districts regarding the extension of water and sewer services to potential customers. It mandates that these entities determine the costs associated with providing services and the customer cost responsibility, in accordance with the rules set by the Public Service Commission. If potential customers wish to proceed, they must provide an upfront contribution for their share of the infrastructure costs. Additionally, if customers request that the municipality or public service district apply for grant funding to cover these costs, they must also cover the application expenses.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if grants are awarded that fully cover the costs of extending services to unserved customers, the municipality or public service district is obligated to extend service after the customers have paid any required fees. The grant funds are to be used to reimburse customers for their contributions, including application costs, ensuring that reimbursements do not exceed the original contribution amount. This legislation aims to facilitate the expansion of essential water and sewer services while providing a structured approach to funding and customer contributions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-19-17, 8-20-16, 16-13-22a, 16-13A-24
Committee Substitute: 8-19-17, 8-20-16, 16-13-22a, 16-13A-24
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 8-19-17, 8-20-16, 16-13-22a, 16-13A-24