Bill > HB3179

This bill modifies the West Virginia Public Service Commission's authority regarding the acquisition of distressed or failing water and wastewater utilities. The bill requires the commission to first explore alternatives to a forced acquisition, such as reorganizing utility management, appointing a receiver, merging with another utility, or establishing a management contract. Before ordering an acquisition, the commission must determine that no reasonable and cost-effective alternatives exist. The bill limits the commission's ability to order an acquisition if the necessary capital improvements would exceed the aggregate contributions from new customer extensions, grant funds from the Water Development Authority Distressed Utilities Account, or other available grants. Additionally, the commission is now required to provide an annual list of distressed or failing utilities to the Legislature, Water Development Authority, and Infrastructure and Jobs Development Council, starting in 2021. The bill aims to provide more flexibility and financial protection for utilities when dealing with struggling water and wastewater systems, ensuring that acquisitions are a last resort and financially viable for the acquiring utility.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=3179&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill