West Virginia House Bill HB3349

West Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/13/25
• Refer: 3/13/25
• Engrossed: 4/11/25
• Enrolled: 4/12/25
• Passed: 4/12/25

Caption

Supplemental Appropriation - Medicaid

Impact

The passage of HB3349 will likely have significant implications for funding levels in Medicaid and other health services provided by the Department of Human Services. With a total of $45,022,906 being appropriated, the bill is designed to address increasing healthcare demands and ensure that residents have access to necessary medical services. This funding will be particularly important for vulnerable populations who depend on state-funded medical aid.

Summary

House Bill 3349 aims to supplement and amend the appropriations out of the Treasury from the unappropriated surplus balance in the State Fund, specifically the State Excess Lottery Revenue Fund, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The primary focus of the bill is to add a new item of appropriation to the Department of Human Services in order to support medical services funded through lottery surplus revenues. This funding adjustment reflects the state government's intent to allocate excess funds to areas in critical need, particularly within health services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be supportive, emphasizing the importance of healthcare funding during times when state revenues are bolstered by surplus lottery revenues. Proponents of the bill argue that it represents a responsible use of excess funds to enhance public health services, thereby improving the overall welfare of the state's residents. However, as with many financial appropriations, stakeholders may have differing views on how effectively the funds will address healthcare issues.

Contention

While HB3349 is primarily seen as a positive step towards enhancing health service funding, some concerns may arise regarding the sustainability of funding sources such as lottery revenue. Critics could question whether reliance on such non-recurring funds for essential healthcare services is prudent, considering fluctuations in lottery revenues. Furthermore, discussions about prioritizing various departments could lead to contention about the distribution of state resources if there are competing funding needs across state agencies.