West Virginia House Bill HB114

West Virginia 2023 1st Special Session

• Introduced: 8/6/23
• Engrossed: 8/6/23
• Enrolled: 8/8/23
• Passed: 8/14/23
• Chaptered: 8/28/23

Caption

Supplementing and amending the appropriations to the PEIA

Impact

The primary impact of HB 114 is on the funding available to the PEIA, which provides health insurance to public employees in West Virginia. By amending the appropriation, the bill may influence the agency's capacity to maintain or alter benefits and services it provides to state employees. A decrease in appropriation could necessitate adjustments in program administration or service delivery, potentially affecting public sector workers and their families.

Summary

House Bill 114 is a legislative proposal aimed at supplementing and amending the appropriations from the state treasury to the Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) for the fiscal year 2024. The bill seeks to decrease an existing appropriation item, thereby adjusting the financial distribution across various state services. This measure is part of a broader effort to ensure efficient funding allocation within the state budget, reflecting an evolving financial landscape as presented by the Governor's executive budget documents detailing available cash balances and revenue estimates for the fiscal year.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 114 appears to be largely positive, particularly among proponents who advocate for a careful and judicious management of state funds. This sense of prudence is echoed in the unanimous support reflected in the voting records, where the bill was passed with 31 votes in favor and none against. The bipartisan support underscores a common consensus on the need for responsible fiscal policies, which is critical in a legislative context where budgetary constraints are perennial concerns.

Contention

While HB 114 received broad support, notable points of contention could arise surrounding the implications of decreased funding for specific PEIA programs. Critics may voice concerns over whether such reductions could lead to diminished healthcare quality or accessibility for public employees, especially in contexts where healthcare services are already under pressure. The discussions regarding the bill highlight ongoing debates about funding priorities and the balancing act between fiscal responsibility and adequate service provision.