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HB 5202

Relating to permitting access to funding for public water utilities subject to the Public Service Commission’s jurisdiction

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Daniel Linville

HB 5202 permits West Virginia public water utilities under PSC jurisdiction to access previously restricted funding sources for infrastructure and operations.

To House Energy and Public Works
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Bill Summary · HB 5202

Legislative bill overview

HB 5202 would modify West Virginia law to permit public water utilities under Public Service Commission (PSC) jurisdiction to access funding mechanisms or financial resources currently unavailable to them. The bill's specific funding provisions are not detailed in the available action history, but it appears designed to address financial barriers facing regulated water utilities in the state.

Why is this important

Water utility infrastructure requires substantial capital investment for maintenance, replacement, and expansion. Restricting funding access can delay critical repairs, potentially affecting water quality and system reliability for consumers. Expanding funding pathways could accelerate infrastructure improvements but may also affect utility rates and ratepayer costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Rate impact uncertainty: Expanded funding access might lead to increased water rates for consumers, depending on how funding is structured and recovered
  • PSC regulatory scope: Questions about whether new funding mechanisms maintain appropriate PSC oversight and consumer protections versus providing utilities more financial flexibility
  • Equity and subsidies: Debate over whether certain funding sources represent fair cost allocation or shift burdens between different ratepayer classes or municipalities

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

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