Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the possibility of combining certain programs related to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (“DHHR”), Workforce West Virginia, and the West Virginia Community and Technical College System
Impact
If implemented, HCR108 would likely lead to more coordinated efforts in higher education by integrating services that currently operate in silos. This consolidation could potentially increase the number of applicants, particularly those who have been receiving benefits from DHHR, by simplifying the process and addressing barriers such as childcare and grant information for those returning to education after disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic. The resolution emphasizes the importance of understanding the current job placement success of community college graduates, which may influence future legislative actions.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 108 (HCR108) focuses on enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of higher education admissions in West Virginia. The bill requests a study by the Joint Committee on Government and Finance to evaluate the feasibility of merging programs managed by the Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Workforce West Virginia, and the West Virginia Community and Technical College System. By proposing a 'one-stop shop' for applicants, the aim is to streamline the application process for prospective students seeking admission into various higher education programs.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HCR108 appears to be largely positive, particularly among advocates for education reform and workforce development. Supporters argue that the proposed study represents a proactive step toward improving educational access and aligning workforce training with state economic needs. However, there may be underlying concerns regarding how such integrations will be managed and whether they will effectively serve diverse populations of applicants.
Contention
While HCR108 aims to create efficiencies within state programs, it is crucial to consider the implications for existing services and how they are perceived by the public. Notable points of contention could arise concerning the administration of merged programs, particularly regarding how benefits are preserved for vulnerable populations during the transition. The resolution also commits to reporting findings and recommendations for potential legislation by 2023, indicating ongoing discussions will be necessary to address various stakeholder concerns and ensure successful implementation.
Requesting the study of the possibility of combining certain programs related to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (“DHHR”), Workforce West Virginia, the West Virginia Community and Technical College System to create “one-stop shop” for applicants be admitted into higher education programs.
Requesting the Joint Committee on Education and the Joint Committee on Health to study the cause and possible solutions to the issues surrounding the supply of current and demand for future emergency service personnel, including emergency medical technicians and paramedics in West Virginia.
Requesting Joint Committee on Government and Finance study enhancements to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection’s Reclamation of Abandoned and Dilapidated Properties Program
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study ways that allow the West Virginia Economic Development Authority (“EDA”) to target companies and have them move to West Virginia without having to go through the Legislative process
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study ways that allow the West Virginia Economic Development Authority (“EDA”) to target companies and have them move to West Virginia without having to go through the Legislative process for every job announcement.
Requesting That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance send official correspondence to West Virginia’s federal delegations stating West Virginia veterans’ concerns and objections to the two TRICARE for Life (“TFL”) proposals
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the benefits of creating a West Virginia State Bank to facilitate access to capital for returning veterans, low-income entrepreneurs and for underserved communities
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance conduct an interim study on how the state of West Virginia can work with municipalities to find solutions for recycling in the state
Combining the offices of the West Virginia State Americans with Disabilities Act Office and the West Virginia Equal Employment Opportunity Office within the Department of Administration
Requesting the study of the possibility of combining certain programs related to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (“DHHR”), Workforce West Virginia, the West Virginia Community and Technical College System to create “one-stop shop” for applicants be admitted into higher education programs.
Requesting the Joint Committee on Education and the Joint Committee on Health to study the cause and possible solutions to the issues surrounding the supply of current and demand for future emergency service personnel, including emergency medical technicians and paramedics in West Virginia.