This bill seeks to enhance the management and performance of water and wastewater utilities in West Virginia by establishing the State Utility Accountability and Improvement Program. It creates the State Utility Management Corps, which will oversee interventions for utilities facing challenges due to limited resources and aging infrastructure. Key provisions include the introduction of a tier classification system to assess the operational status of utilities, the establishment of a Priority Utility Docket for expedited regulatory proceedings, and the expansion of the Distressed Utilities Account from $5 million to $15 million. The bill emphasizes transparency and accountability, mandating annual assessments and public involvement in the classification and improvement processes.

Additionally, the legislation outlines procedures for addressing non-compliance with improvement plans, including a 60-day cure period and potential conservatorship for utilities that fail to meet deadlines. It introduces mandatory training for governing bodies and senior management of public utilities, encourages regional cooperation, and establishes a structured process for developing improvement plans. The bill also includes provisions for emergency commission proceedings to address utilities that violate health or safety standards, ensuring swift action to protect public health. Overall, the bill aims to create a comprehensive framework for the proactive management of distressed utilities, ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of water and wastewater services in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22C-1-4, 24-2H-4, 24-2H-7, 31-15A-9, 24-2J-1, 24-2J-2, 24-2J-3, 24-2J-4, 24-2J-4a, 24-2J-4b, 24-2J-4c, 24-2J-5, 24-2J-6, 24-2J-6a, 24-2J-7, 24-2J-7a, 24-2J-7b, 24-2J-8, 24-2J-9, 24-2J-9a, 24-2J-10, 24-2J-11