Transportation

HB 4007 amends West Virginia's Industrial Access Road Fund rules to clarify how state funds can be used for constructing or maintaining access roads to industrial sites. The bill directly affects counties and municipalities seeking funding for roads leading to approved manufacturing, distribution, or processing facilities (including West Virginia Business Ready Sites), while restricting the fund from covering roads to schools, hospitals, shopping centers, or private property. Key changes include raising the annual funding cap to $6 million per fiscal year, setting a $800,000 maximum for unmatched funds per county, and requiring counties to certify site construction or provide surety before funds are allocated. The bill also clarifies that funds cannot be used for utility adjustments or roads on private property, and mandates the Division of Highways must review location requests within 90 days.

HB 4410 clarifies when drivers must stop at railroad crossings by defining "on-track equipment" (including maintenance vehicles and all rail-based equipment) and updating stop requirements. It requires drivers to stop 15-50 feet from rails when signals indicate an approaching train or other on-track equipment, gates are lowered, a train is within 1,500 feet and audible, or a train is visibly hazardous. The bill also prohibits driving around or under closed gates and specifies penalties: misdemeanor fines up to $100 or 10 days in jail, plus three driver’s license points for violations. This directly affects drivers approaching railroad crossings in West Virginia, ensuring consistent safety rules for all rail-related equipment.

HB 4036 increases penalties for illegally parking in accessible spaces or misusing special disability plates/placards in West Virginia. It requires placards to display clearly (red for temporary, blue for permanent use) and mandates a public awareness campaign about proper parking rules and consequences. The bill does not change eligibility for placards - applicants still need medical certification from licensed providers - but strengthens enforcement against violations. It directly affects people with mobility impairments who use designated parking and violators who park illegally in these spaces.