Assure West Virginians proper access to water and sewage service at reasonable rates

HB 4058 authorizes reduced water and sewer utility rates for two groups in West Virginia: residents of communities with fewer than 1,000 people, and residents receiving specific benefits (SSI, TANF, TANF-UP, or SNAP for seniors). It allows utilities to offer up to a 20% rate reduction, approved by the Public Service Commission, with credits applied retroactively to customers' bills once approved. The Department of Human Services will help verify eligibility and inform benefit recipients about the program, while utilities must ensure small-community residents can access these lower rates. This bill directly affects low-income households and small communities by making essential water and sewer services more affordable.