West Virginia House Bill HB2100

West Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/22
• Refer: 1/12/22

Caption

Relating to payment for the construction of any expanded or upgraded public service district facilities in certain circumstances

Impact

The implementation of HB 2100 is expected to significantly alter the financial landscape for public service districts, encouraging new commercial and industrial developments in areas where infrastructure has previously been insufficient. By placing the financial responsibility for facility upgrades on new customers, the legislation is designed to incentivize businesses to establish operations in developing regions without imposing additional costs on current residents. However, this may also discourage businesses if the costs of upgrading facilities are substantial.

Summary

House Bill 2100 focuses on the responsibilities of new commercial and industrial customers regarding the construction of expanded or upgraded public service district facilities. The bill mandates that if a public service district cannot accommodate a new customer with existing infrastructure, that customer must bear the costs related to the necessary upgrades or new construction. Notably, the bill prohibits passing any costs onto current consumers within the district, aiming to protect existing customers from financial burden resulting from new service demands.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2100 is mixed. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to promote economic growth by ensuring that new businesses can establish themselves without overburdening existing taxpayers. On the other hand, critics raise concerns that the bill could hurt small communities by attracting large corporations that may not contribute adequately to local infrastructure costs, thereby creating an imbalance in the provision of essential services.

Contention

The primary contention regarding HB 2100 centers on the balance of responsibility between new businesses and existing residents. Supporters maintain that the bill promotes fiscal responsibility and growth within the public service districts, while opponents caution that it may lead to inequitable service provisions and potential neglect of ongoing maintenance needs for existing infrastructures.