West Virginia House Bill HB2693

West Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/25
• Refer: 2/20/25
• Refer: 2/28/25

Caption

Relating to the management of personal service appropriations for vacant positions

Impact

If enacted, HB2693 would significantly affect how appropriations for vacant positions are handled within the West Virginia state government. It would legally require that resources allocated for these positions are transferred to a defined special account, thereby preventing misuse. This provision would ensure that funds remain dedicated to their original purpose and could facilitate quicker reallocation of resources once a vacancy is filled or during emergencies. Furthermore, the creation of annual reporting requirements would lead to better monitoring and evaluation of state staffing needs and appropriations utilization.

Summary

House Bill 2693 proposes amendments to the West Virginia state code regarding the management of appropriations for vacant personnel positions. The bill aims to enhance accountability and transparency in the allocation and use of funds designated for personnel that are not currently filled. One key provision of the bill mandates the establishment of a special fund specifically for appropriating and managing funds linked to vacant positions, ensuring that they are not repurposed without appropriate oversight. This proposed change seeks to streamline the process of managing state personnel costs during periods of both normal operations and emergencies.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB2693 appears to be supportive from both fiscal responsibility advocates and employees within state agencies who recognize the need for better management of public funds. Proponents of the bill argue that such a structure will foster greater transparency and trust in state financial management. However, some legislators may express concerns regarding regulatory burdens or the efficacy of oversight mechanisms included in the bill. The discourse surrounding the bill highlights a broad consensus on the need for reform, with fewer vocal opponents compared to other, more contentious legislative proposals.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the bill’s implementation, particularly regarding how the reallocation of appropriations occurs during a state of emergency. Legislators may debate the extent of authority given to the Department of Personnel and the Secretary of the Treasury in managing these appropriations. Additionally, the requirement for annual reporting might be scrutinized for its potential impact on agency resources. The balance between maintaining necessary flexibility for state operations while ensuring stringent financial accountability could be a recurring theme in debates surrounding this legislation.