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SB 506

Permitting certain use of county-owned wireless tower

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Patricia Rucker and 2 co-sponsors

West Virginia bill authorizing counties to lease county-owned wireless towers to private companies to generate revenue and expand telecommunications coverage.

Chapter 81, Acts, Regular Session, 2026
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Bill Summary · SB 506

Legislative bill overview

SB 506 permits counties in West Virginia to lease or authorize use of county-owned wireless towers to private telecommunications companies and other entities. The bill would allow counties to generate revenue from infrastructure assets while potentially expanding broadband and cellular coverage in underserved areas.

Why is this important

Rural West Virginia communities often lack adequate wireless infrastructure, and county-owned towers represent untapped assets that could fund local services or improve connectivity. However, this bill raises questions about public asset management, revenue allocation, and whether private companies should profit from public infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue allocation – Unclear whether lease proceeds go to general county funds, specific programs, or debt reduction, and whether rates are regulated
  • Public vs. private benefit – Whether leasing public assets to private telecom companies adequately serves the public interest or primarily benefits corporate profits
  • Competitive fairness – Whether allowing private use of county towers creates unequal competitive advantages for some carriers over others, or restricts access to certain providers
  • Infrastructure accountability – Questions about maintenance responsibility, liability, and whether counties retain control over tower usage decisions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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