This bill amends various sections of the West Virginia Code to enhance the administration of the West Virginia Drinking Water Treatment Revolving Fund and the responsibilities of the Water Development Authority. It introduces key definitions, such as "public utility" and "non-governmental public utility," and emphasizes the urgent need for the rehabilitation and maintenance of water treatment infrastructure. The bill empowers the Water Development Authority to provide loans and grants to both governmental and non-governmental public utilities, while also outlining the authority's rights in enforcing loan agreements. A new section, 22C-1-7a, is added to grant the authority the power to enforce these agreements and establish procedures for fund collection related to the Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund.

Additionally, the bill expands the scope of the Water Development Authority's powers, allowing it to release utilities from grant repayment obligations and enabling refinancing of loans. It mandates the maintenance of water development projects and requires annual reporting to ensure transparency. The legislation also introduces a new restricted account, the Distressed Utilities Account, to support the acquisition and improvement of failing water systems, with provisions for grants covering up to 100% of project costs. Furthermore, it creates a Critical Needs and Failing Systems Sub Account within the Infrastructure Fund to address urgent water service needs, prioritizing funding for governmental and not-for-profit sponsors while allowing for-profit entities access under certain conditions. Overall, the bill aims to streamline processes and enhance the effectiveness of water infrastructure development in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22-36-1, 22-36-5, 22C-1-2, 22C-1-3, 22C-1-5, 22C-1-6, 22C-1-17, 22C-1-22, 22C-2-1, 22C-2-5, 24-1-1, 24-2H-8, 31-15A-4, 31-15A-9, 31-15A-17c, 22C-1-7a