West VirginiaSB 5062026 Regular SessionSenate

Permitting certain use of county-owned wireless tower

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

County space for local nonprofits

Beginning June 12, 2026, county commissions can lease or allow county buildings and land to local nonprofits. Groups must be established in that county. Counties decide which nonprofits can use the space and for what.

Local panel to manage county space

Beginning June 12, 2026, a county may appoint a 3 to 5 person panel to manage who uses county properties. All members must live in the county. A majority forms a quorum; decisions need a majority vote and can be reviewed by the county commission. Members may be repaid for necessary expenses.

Free tower space for public safety

Beginning June 12, 2026, counties may let 911, police, fire, EMS, the state highways department, and other state agencies use tower space with no usage charge. Counties can still bill for actual, reasonable costs like engineering, maintenance, utilities, and tower changes. These users must meet the same security and eligibility rules.

Leasing county wireless towers with safeguards

Beginning June 12, 2026, county commissions can lease space on county-owned wireless towers. Any user must pass strict security checks: no ties to federal foreign‑adversary or terrorism lists, or those named by key executive orders or terror‑supporting countries. Users cannot do unconstitutional surveillance and must use strong, uncompromised cyber defenses. If tech connects to election systems, it cannot use hardware or software from foreign‑controlled or non‑U.S. sources, or made abroad. Counties must do due diligence and are shielded from damages if they do, and they can set local rules and charge fees for use.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Jay Taylor
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Patricia Rucker
Republican • Senate
Randy E. Smith
Republican • Senate
Darren Thorne
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 164 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/14/2026

Senate concurred in House amendments and passed bill (Roll No. 624)

Yes: 34 • No: 0

House vote • 3/13/2026

Passed House (Roll No. 534)

Yes: 96 • No: 0

Senate vote • 2/2/2026

Passed Senate (Roll No. 34)