West Virginia House Bill HB3361

West Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/23
• Refer: 2/10/23

Caption

Relating to the allocation of federal funds to county commissions and certain municipalities

Impact

The passage of HB3361 would have a significant impact on state laws by creating a specific framework for distributing federal funds aimed at poverty alleviation. It establishes a special revenue account, known as the Budget Surplus and American Rescue Plan Low-Income Assistance Program, to govern the use of these funds. The bill emphasizes the importance of targeted assistance and ensures that local governments have the resources needed to address specific community needs. By taking a bottom-up approach, it allows municipalities to tailor programs according to the unique challenges faced by their constituents.

Summary

House Bill 3361 aims to allocate $300 million from federally appropriated American Rescue Plan Act funds and other budget surplus funds to support county commissions and municipalities in West Virginia. The intent of the bill is to provide assistance specifically targeted at low-income individuals living below the federal poverty line within these jurisdictions. The funding can be used for various aims, including day care assistance, health care, housing, recreation, food security, and community-based programs. This allocation seeks to enable localities to enhance their support systems for vulnerable populations and foster community well-being.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB3361 appears to be generally positive, especially among community advocates and local government officials who see this as an opportunity to address pressing socio-economic issues within their communities. Supporters argue that the legislation is a crucial investment in public welfare and health outcomes, enhancing the quality of life for economically disadvantaged residents. However, there may be some skepticism regarding the effective management and implementation of the funds at the local level, as well as concerns about bureaucratic processes that could delay assistance.

Contention

Despite the general support for HB3361, there may be points of contention related to the likelihood of success in distributing the funds effectively and reaching those in need. Questions concerning the accountability of local governments in managing these funds could arise, particularly regarding their effectiveness in implementing programs that achieve the intended goals of reducing poverty and promoting economic stability. Additionally, the reliance on federally appropriated funds may raise concerns around future funding stability and sustainability of the programs that will be established under this bill.