West Virginia Senate Bill SB1035

West Virginia 2023 1st Special Session

• Introduced: 8/6/23
• Engrossed: 8/6/23
• Refer: 8/8/23

Caption

Supplementing and amending appropriations from General Revenue to DEP, Division of Environmental Protection

Impact

The impact of SB 1035 on state laws involves alterations in financial management concerning environmental expenditures. By increasing the appropriations, the bill aims to support vital environmental programs that may include state environmental regulatory activities, improvements, and maintenance of state-managed resources. This financial bolstering is essential as it ensures that the Department of Environmental Protection can effectively fulfill its mandate and maintain compliance with state and federal environmental regulations.

Summary

Senate Bill 1035 serves to supplement and amend the appropriations from the General Revenue of West Virginia to the Department of Environmental Protection for the fiscal year 2024. It seeks to allocate funds from the unappropriated surplus balance available in the state treasury, enhancing the financial resources available for environmental protection initiatives. The bill was documented to address the provisions required to ensure that adequate funding is available to meet the operational needs of this state agency during the upcoming fiscal year.

Sentiment

Reactions to the bill appear largely positive, with a consensus among lawmakers about the necessity of ensuring adequate funding for environmental protection efforts. The passage of SB 1035 drew unanimous support in the Senate, signaling recognition of the importance of sustaining environmental initiatives within the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Such bipartisan backing reflects a shared understanding of the critical role that state-funded programs play in safeguarding the environment.

Contention

The notable points of contention around SB 1035 may arise from debates about fiscal priorities and budget allocations. While the bill passed without opposition, concerns could be raised regarding the sustainability of the funding sources and the broader implications of utilizing surplus funds. Critics might argue the necessity for long-term strategic planning rather than relying on surplus balances to address ongoing commitments in environmental stewardship. Stakeholders in various sectors might be wary of how increased funding for environmental protection could affect other areas of the state budget.