WV HB3179

Limits the Public Service Commission's authority to order acquisitions of distressed or failing water and wastewater utilities by establishing specific cost constraints

Prohibits the commission from ordering a utility to acquire a distressed or failing utility if capital improvement costs exceed: customer contribution requirements under extension of mains rules, grant funds from the Water Development Authority Distressed Utilities Account, other grant funds, or any combination thereof

Requires the commission to consider alternatives before ordering acquisition, including reorganization under new management, operation by another utility under contract, appointment of a receiver, merger with other utilities, or voluntary acquisition through mutual agreement

Mandates the commission provide annual lists of distressed and failing utilities to the Legislature, Water Development Authority, and Infrastructure and Jobs Development Council by January 31 each year

Takes effect July 9, 2025 (90 days after passage on April 10, 2025)