West Virginia House Bill HB3350

West Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/13/25
• Refer: 3/13/25
• Engrossed: 4/2/25
• Refer: 4/3/25
• Report Pass: 4/7/25
• Enrolled: 4/9/25
• Passed: 4/12/25

Caption

Supplemental Appropriation - DCR - Corrections - 0608

Impact

The passage of HB 3350 is expected to have a significant impact on the operational capacities of the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation and other related agencies. By increasing the budget allocations, the bill allows for improved infrastructure, staffing, and services within both the adult correctional system and juvenile services. This could lead to better rehabilitation programs, enhanced safety measures in correctional facilities, and an overall strengthening of the state’s commitment to correcting and rehabilitating offenders, especially youth.

Summary

House Bill 3350 is a supplemental appropriation bill that seeks to amend and supplement appropriations from the State Fund, General Revenue, specifically targeting the Department of Homeland Security, Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. This bill highlights the allocation of funds to various correctional units and juvenile services, ensuring that these departments have the necessary financial resources to operate effectively for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The total appropriation has been increased for the correctional units and for the Bureau of Juvenile Services, aligning with the state’s needs for enhanced correctional support.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment regarding HB 3350 appears to be supportive, as evidenced by the unanimous vote of 32 to 0 during the legislative process. This strong level of agreement suggests that legislators recognize the importance of adequately funding correctional services and juvenile rehabilitation programs. The bipartisan support indicates a collective acknowledgment of the critical role these services play in maintaining safety and promoting positive outcomes for individuals involved with the corrections system.

Contention

Despite the supportive sentiment, there may be underlying concerns about the efficacy and accountability of how these additional funds will be utilized within the corrections framework. Questions surrounding the appropriate management of these funds and the potential for bureaucracy to affect service delivery could be points of contention in future discussions. Legislators may call for transparency and regular reporting on spending to ensure that funds are directed toward initiatives that lead to meaningful improvements in correctional outcomes.