West Virginia House Bill HB2628

West Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/23
• Refer: 1/17/23

Caption

Requiring certain boards that seek to increase a fee or seek to impose a new fee to also submit cost saving measures

Impact

If passed, HB 2628 would significantly reshape the operational procedures of state boards of examination and registration when considering adjustments to their fees. The new stipulation requiring the submission of cost-saving measures implies that these boards must evaluate their fiscal management before proposing any fee increase. This approach could lead to more efficient budgeting within these organizations and potentially avert unnecessary financial burdens on the consumers they serve.

Summary

House Bill 2628 aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a requirement for certain boards to submit proposed cost saving measures when they seek to increase an existing fee or impose a new fee. This bill intends to foster greater accountability and fiscal responsibility among regulatory boards by ensuring that any fee changes are justified with efforts to reduce expenditures. By mandating transparency in the decision-making processes of these boards, the bill seeks to protect consumers and ensure that they are not unduly burdened by increased costs without justification.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2628 appears to be cautiously optimistic. Supporters of the bill argue that it promotes fiscal prudence and accountability among state boards, thereby aligning their financial practices with the best interests of the public. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential bureaucratic burden this requirement could impose on these boards, which may hinder their ability to respond quickly to necessary changes. Overall, the reactions seem to reflect a desire for transparency without compromising the operational efficiency of the boards involved.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 2628 include the debate over how the requirement for cost-saving measure documentation might impact the efficiency of boards' operations. Critics are expressing concerns that this additional paperwork could delay the process of fee adjustments or lead to unnecessary complications in decision-making. Supporters counter that such measures are critical for ensuring that any financial appropriation is justifiable and in the best interest of the public purse. The discussion reflects a broader concern about balancing regulatory oversight with the agility needed for state boards to function effectively.