West Virginia House Bill HB2927

West Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/23
• Refer: 1/23/23
• Engrossed: 3/6/23
• Refer: 3/10/23

Caption

Supplementing and amending appropriation to the Department of Homeland Security, Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation - Correctional Units

Impact

The passage of HB 2927 would have significant implications for state laws regarding budgetary allocations and corrections funding. By supplementing the existing budget with an additional $20,000,000 for capital outlay and equipment, the bill addresses urgent needs within the correctional system. This funding is critical to maintaining safety and effective rehabilitation programs within correctional facilities, impacting the overall management of corrections in West Virginia. The appropriation serves to bolster the state's ability to respond more effectively to operational needs that may arise throughout the fiscal year.

Summary

House Bill 2927 aims to supplement and amend the appropriations budget for the Department of Homeland Security, specifically targeting the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The bill is designed to allocate funds from the unappropriated surplus balance in the state's General Revenue Fund to support the operations and maintenance of correctional units for the fiscal year 2023. This move reflects the state's ongoing commitment to ensure that its correctional facilities are adequately funded for capital outlay, repairs, and essential equipment, thereby enhancing the operational capabilities of these units.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2927 is largely supportive, particularly among legislators focused on public safety and corrections reform. With a vote of 94 in favor and none against, the bill indicates strong bipartisan consensus on the need for adequate funding in the corrections sector. The support may stem from a recognition of the importance of maintaining secure and effective correctional facilities, as well as ensuring that rehabilitation efforts are sufficiently backed by financial resources. However, there remains a general concern about the long-term funding strategies for such institutions, which may affect ongoing discussions about budget allocations in future sessions.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill may arise from ongoing debates about budget priorities within the state. Critics may argue that while this immediate funding can address pressing needs, it could detract from other essential state services that also require attention and resources. The balancing act of appropriating surplus funds for corrections versus other public needs continues to be a point for lawmakers to examine, especially as state revenues fluctuate. Thus, while the bill's intent is constructive, the conversations it sparks regarding fiscal management and populous needs ensure that HB 2927 is part of a larger discussion on how state funds are utilized.