West Virginia House Bill HB5476

West Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/24
• Refer: 2/5/24

Caption

Making a supplemental appropriation to the Division of Health – Consolidated Medical Service Fund

Impact

The approval of HB 5476 would result in an increase in accessible resources for health-related services administered by the Division of Health. By appropriating federal funds, the bill aims to support ongoing health projects and ensure that the Division can effectively respond to healthcare needs for the fiscal year. The intent is to bolster public health funding at a critical time, enhancing the state's ability to manage health services efficiently and adequately.

Summary

House Bill 5476 seeks to make a supplemental appropriation of public funds from the remaining balance of federal moneys for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. This bill specifically targets the Department of Health and Human Resources, aiming to provide additional funds to the Division of Health’s Consolidated Medical Service Fund. Such appropriations are made under the acknowledgment that federal funds are available and can be utilized to enhance the fiscal provisions for health services in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 5476 appears to be supportive, focusing on the urgency of healthcare funding amid ongoing challenges faced by public health systems. Given that it leverages federal funds, the bill is likely to receive bipartisan backing, reflecting a shared recognition of the importance of sustaining health services for the community. Advocates for public health would likely herald the bill as a necessary step towards ensuring that health initiatives remain funded and operational.

Contention

While the details of the discussion around HB 5476 are not extensively covered, potential points of contention could arise around the allocation of funds and the specific health programs that benefit from these appropriations. Legislators may debate the efficacy of utilizing federal funds for state health programs, their long-term sustainability, and how these funds are planned to be utilized to align with broader health policy goals and initiatives.