West Virginia House Bill HB2370

West Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Refer: 1/11/23

Caption

Requiring 50 percent of all reappropriated revenue accounts to be surrendered to general revenue

Impact

The implementation of HB 2370 could lead to a significant increase in the General Revenue Fund, providing the state with additional financial resources for essential services and programs. This bill could lead to changes in budgetary allocations, as funds that might have otherwise been available for specific projects will be redirected to the general fund. This could positively affect state-wide initiatives that depend on general funding, while also necessitating careful management to ensure that specific needs associated with reappropriated accounts are appropriately met.

Summary

House Bill 2370 aims to mandate the transfer of 50 percent of the unencumbered balance from each reappropriated revenue account in the State Treasury to the General Revenue Fund of West Virginia. This bill is intended to enhance the state's financial resources by ensuring that excess funds from reappropriated accounts are not left idle and are utilized for more pressing state needs. The bill establishes clear guidelines on the transfer process, outlining exceptions under which transfers may not occur, such as federal prohibitions or conditions tied to the funding agreements.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HB 2370 suggest a generally positive sentiment among proponents, who view it as a prudent measure for managing state resources effectively. Supporters argue that it promotes fiscal responsibility and ensures that the state maximizes available funds. However, there may also be concerns from certain stakeholders regarding the implications of pooling these funds, potentially leading to disputes over budget priorities and the allocation of resources across various sectors.

Contention

A notable point of contention may emerge from the specifics of how reappropriated accounts are managed and the implications of shifting funds to the General Revenue Fund. Stakeholders may debate whether such a sweeping mandate effectively addresses the financial needs of particular departments or projects, especially those that rely heavily on reappropriated funds. Additionally, the criteria for exceptions laid out in the bill could lead to further scrutiny and potential pushback from groups concerned about the stability of funding for certain initiatives.