Supplementing and amending appropriations to the Division of Health, Central Office
Impact
The bill is expected to have a positive impact on public health provisions in West Virginia by ensuring that sufficient funds are allocated to essential health services and programs. By adding new items to the appropriations for the Division of Health, the legislation could enhance the state’s capacity to respond to health-related challenges and improve overall public health outcomes, particularly in light of increasing healthcare demands.
Summary
House Bill 5453 aims to supplement and amend appropriations from the state treasury to the Department of Health and Human Resources for the fiscal year 2024. The bill outlines the allocation of funds, including appropriations for personnel, the Chief Medical Examiner, and programs such as the Vaccine for Children initiative. This supplementary bill reflects the state's financial intentions in addressing specific healthcare needs within its budgetary framework.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HB 5453 appears supportive from health advocacy groups and legislative members emphasizing the importance of adequate funding for health initiatives. The recognition of an unappropriated surplus balance in the state treasury provides a sense of urgency and opportunity for immediate investments in health programs, which are expected to garner bipartisan support.
Contention
While the bill is largely non-controversial, points of contention may arise regarding the priority of funding allocations and the specific health initiatives that receive support. Some stakeholders might express concerns about whether the appropriations will be sufficient to cover all necessary health program needs or if certain areas will be overlooked. Discussions could also arise regarding transparency and oversight in how these additional funds will be managed within the Department of Health and Human Resources.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.