The West Virginia Broadband Enhancement Council was established in code during the 2017 Regular Legislative Session with the passage of House Bill 3093 and signed into law by Gov. Jim Justice. The Code sets the many directives for the Council with the primary emphasis being on the development of broadband infrastructure in unserved and underserved areas of the State.
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Broadband legislation passed during the 2019 Legislative Session
Senate Bill 3 – This legislation enacts incorporates several initiatives. It establishes the “Wireless Technology Business Property Valuation Act;” amends Chapter 31 G of the WV Code by adding three new sections; directs electric utility companies to prepare a broadband feasibility study on their poles; and establishes the “Small Wireless Facilities Deployment Act.”
Senate Bill 270 – This legislation amends the Dig Once Policy created in Code in 2018 including provisions that deal with fair market value of telecommunication builds in Division of Highway Right-of-Ways; newspaper Class II legal ad notice requirements; Dig Once exemptions; and reduction in a provider’s public notice for a Dig Once build.
2018 Legislative Session
Senate Bill 445 – This bill provides parameters for the state Division of Highways to acquire real or personal property for utility accommodation, including broadband.
House Bill 4447 – This bill addresses broadband conduit installation and is commonly referred to as the “Dig Once Policy.”
House Bill 4629 – This bill updates language in House Bill 3093 as it relates to expansion policies.