West Virginia's Senate Bill 797 aims to enhance water safety and transparency in public water systems, addressing critical issues in the state's water infrastructure. Introduced on March 18, 2025, the bill mandates the creation of a comprehensive water level status plan for aboveground storage tanks, requiring owners to provide updates on tank levels at least twice daily. For systems lacking telemetry, the bill emphasizes the need for alternative methods to ensure timely data collection, with a completion deadline set for July 1, 2027.

Key provisions of the bill also focus on transparency and communication. Public water systems will be required to submit quarterly operational and financial reports, participate in Open Checkbooks, and undergo independent reviews if they receive five or more formal complaints in a quarter. This aims to bolster accountability and improve public trust in water services.

Moreover, the bill addresses the pressing shortage of qualified water workers by directing the Public Service Commission to develop a plan by July 1, 2026, to promote careers in water management through educational initiatives and potential financial incentives.

The legislation has sparked discussions among lawmakers and stakeholders, with supporters highlighting the need for improved water safety and operational transparency, while critics express concerns about the feasibility of implementing such extensive reporting and communication requirements.

As West Virginia grapples with aging infrastructure and water quality issues, Senate Bill 797 represents a significant step toward ensuring reliable water services for residents. The bill's passage could lead to enhanced public confidence in water systems and a more robust workforce in the water management sector, setting a precedent for future legislative efforts in environmental protection and public health.