The bill amends the West Virginia Code to improve funding for emergency medical services (EMS) and fire protection by establishing two new special revenue funds: the County Emergency Medical Services Fund and the All-County Emergency Medical Services Fund. These funds will be administered by the Director of the West Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services and will receive legislative appropriations, grants, and donations. The funds are intended to support EMS departments in counties with excess levies or dedicated fees. Additionally, the existing Emergency Medical Services Salary Enhancement Fund is renamed to the Emergency Medical Services Crisis Response and Mental Health Treatment Fund, with expanded purposes that include training and equipment for EMS personnel.

The bill also clarifies the responsibilities of certified microgrid districts and high impact data centers regarding the payment of county fire and ambulance fees, ensuring they receive fire and police protection while mandating the payment of local taxes and fees. It prohibits counties and municipalities from imposing additional regulations that could impede the development of these entities. Furthermore, a portion of the State Lottery Fund's net profits will be allocated to the new EMS funds, with specific amounts designated for each fund and a pro rata distribution method outlined for cases of insufficient funds. The proposed changes to existing law will take effect 90 days after passage, pending approval from the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Delegates, and the President of the Senate.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-4-25, 29-22-18h
Committee Substitute: 7-5C-1, 7-5C-2, 16-4-25, 29-22-18h
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 7-5C-1, 7-5C-2, 16-4-25, 29-22-18h
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 5B-2-21b, 16-4-25, 7-5C-1, 7-5C-2, 29-22-18h