Supplementing and amending approriations to the Civil Contingent Fund
Impact
If enacted, HB 5467 will directly impact the financial management of the state’s resources by enhancing the capacity of the Civil Contingent Fund. The bill indicates enabling provisions for the Governor’s Office to access and utilize surplus funds, which can be instrumental in financing unexpected expenditures. This is particularly critical in times when state revenues may fall short of expectations, ensuring that essential services and governmental functions are not compromised by budgetary constraints.
Summary
House Bill 5467 seeks to amend the appropriations for the Civil Contingent Fund within the state budget of West Virginia for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. The bill is introduced to utilize the unappropriated surplus balance from the State Fund, General Revenue, allowing additional financial allocations to the Governor’s Office. This type of financial appropriation is essential for ensuring that state operations can be maintained without interruptions due to funding shortages, especially in response to unforeseen circumstances or emergencies that may arise within the fiscal year.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HB 5467 appears to be supportive, particularly among those who prioritize fiscal responsibility and the need for flexibility in budgeting. Advocates for the bill underscore the importance of having a readily accessible fund to respond swiftly to any urgent needs that may occur throughout the fiscal year. However, there could also be concern among some legislators regarding the utilization of surplus funds, with questions about proper oversight and accountability in spending decisions stemming from this budget amendment.
Contention
One notable point of contention associated with HB 5467 may revolve around discussions on state budget surplus allocations. Critics of similar bills often argue that using surplus funds could lead to potential mismanagement or lack of transparency in governmental spending. There may also be apprehension regarding the implications of such financial appropriations on long-term state budgeting and fiscal planning, emphasizing the need for careful scrutiny of how these funds are eventually utilized by the state.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.