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

HB 5202 updates West Virginia law to expand access to state funding for public water utilities regulated by the Public Service Commission. It permits the Water Development Authority to provide loans and grants - including to non-governmental public utilities - to address infrastructure needs, particularly for systems serving disadvantaged communities or facing financial distress. The bill establishes specific funding streams, such as the Critical Needs and Failing Systems Sub Account and Distressed Utilities Account, with defined eligibility criteria for utilities seeking assistance. These changes streamline how utilities can access capital for compliance with drinking water standards while clarifying the Authority’s role in enforcing loan agreements.