West Virginia Senate Bill SB627

West Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22
• Report Pass: 2/17/22
• Engrossed: 2/22/22
• Refer: 2/23/22
• Enrolled: 3/7/22
• Passed: 3/15/22
• Chaptered: 4/20/22

Caption

Supplementing, amending, and increasing existing item of appropriation from State Road Fund to DOT, DOH

Impact

The passage of SB627 allows the West Virginia Department of Transportation to access additional funds necessary for its operations. The increase in appropriations may facilitate much-needed repairs, maintenance, and improvements of state roads and infrastructure. By bolstering the Division of Highways' budget, the bill is expected to support construction projects and enhance the efficiency of transportation services within the state, ultimately benefiting commuters and local businesses alike.

Summary

Senate Bill 627 aims to supplement, amend, and increase the existing appropriation from the State Road Fund to the Department of Transportation's Division of Highways for the fiscal year 2022. This bill is primarily focused on enhancing the financial resources allocated for various transportation-related projects, ensuring that the Division of Highways has adequate funding to maintain and improve infrastructure. The bill reflects the state’s commitment to investing in its road and highway systems, which are crucial for the overall economic development and safety of the community.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB627 has been predominantly positive, as it demonstrates a clear intent to prioritize infrastructure investment. Lawmakers showed strong support for the bill during discussions, highlighting the importance of a robust transportation network. The near-unanimous voting record, with only one dissenting vote among 97 total votes, indicates a consensus on the necessity of funding enhancements for state transportation needs, reflecting widespread agreement among legislators regarding its significance for economic and public safety.

Contention

While SB627 enjoyed broad approval, there may be underlying concerns regarding the source of funding and the implications of increased expenditures on the state budget. Some legislators and constituents may question whether this is the most effective use of state resources and if it might divert funds from other critical areas such as education or healthcare. However, the general trend of support suggests that the perceived benefits of improved infrastructure outweigh these potential points of contention.