West Virginia Senate Bill SB2017

West Virginia 2024 2nd Special Session

• Introduced: 9/30/24
• Engrossed: 10/6/24

Caption

Supplementing and amending appropriations to Division of Culture and History

Impact

If enacted, SB2017 would positively affect the state's cultural landscape by providing additional financial resources to the Department of Arts, Culture, and History. This could lead to an increase in projects that celebrate and preserve West Virginia's cultural and historical identity. By securing these funds, the bill addresses potential gaps in funding that may arise due to changes in economic conditions and ensures that existing programs can continue to operate effectively.

Summary

Senate Bill 2017 is a legislative proposal aimed at supplementing and amending the appropriations made to the Department of Arts, Culture, and History for the fiscal year 2025. The bill seeks to allocate a specific amount of surplus revenue from the state treasury to enhance funding for cultural and historical initiatives within West Virginia. This move is part of broader efforts to ensure that cultural heritage activities receive the necessary financial support to maintain and promote arts and history across the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB2017 appears to be largely supportive, with legislative discussions indicating a recognition of the importance of arts and culture in state building and community development. The bill passed with a notable majority, reflecting a consensus among lawmakers about the value of investing in cultural initiatives. However, some concerns were raised regarding the prioritization of funding, suggesting that not all stakeholders fully agree on the allocation of state resources.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB2017 may include debates on the sufficiency of the proposed budget increase and how these funds will be distributed among various cultural projects. While the anticipated benefits are acknowledged, critics may question whether this allocation meets the broader needs of the state's arts and history sectors, especially in light of other pressing budgetary demands.