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SB 49

Relating to permissible expenditures by Water Development Authority from Infrastructure Fund

2026 Regular Session

SB 49 expands West Virginia's Water Development Authority's permitted spending from Infrastructure Fund to fund additional water infrastructure project categories.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 49

Legislative bill overview

SB 49 modifies what the West Virginia Water Development Authority (WDA) can spend money on from its Infrastructure Fund. The bill expands or clarifies the types of projects and expenditures the WDA is permitted to fund, moving beyond a potentially restrictive previous definition of eligible uses.

Why is this important

Water infrastructure projects are critical for public health, economic development, and disaster resilience. Clarifying what the WDA can fund directly affects which communities receive investment in water systems, treatment facilities, and related infrastructure—ultimately determining who gets reliable water service and at what cost.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope creep: Opponents may argue that broadening permissible expenditures lacks sufficient specificity, potentially allowing funds to be diverted from core water infrastructure needs to less critical purposes
  • Accountability and oversight: Questions about whether expanded spending authority includes adequate reporting requirements, competitive bidding processes, and public transparency mechanisms
  • Rural vs. urban allocation: Concerns about whether the new expenditure categories favor certain regions or project types over others, particularly regarding equitable distribution of limited infrastructure funding

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

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