Bill > SB213

This bill grants the Public Service Commission (PSC), a state agency that historically regulates essential utilities like electricity and water, the authority to oversee internet service providers (ISPs) in West Virginia. The bill establishes that reliable internet access with sufficient speed is a fundamental necessity for consumers, comparable to other regulated public utilities. An "internet service provider" is defined as any business offering broadband internet access to customers in the state. Under this new law, the PSC will be empowered to ensure ISPs provide safe, adequate, and reliable service under fair terms and conditions, and will handle customer complaints regarding service quality or unfair terms. The PSC will have jurisdiction over entities necessary to fulfill these duties, including the power to compel testimony and documents, and ISPs that fail to comply with PSC orders could face fines of up to $7,000 per violation, with the PSC or affected customers able to seek enforcement in court. The PSC is also authorized to create necessary rules to implement these provisions.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=213&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill