Supplemental Appropriation - EDA and Medicaid Net Zero
Impact
The impact of HB 3359 is significant as it addresses allocated funding for two critical areas: economic development and human services. By decreasing the funds available to the Economic Development Authority, the bill potentially prioritizes immediate human service needs over long-term economic projects. This shift reflects a legislative acknowledgement of urgent healthcare and support requirements that might arise among vulnerable populations during the fiscal year.
Summary
House Bill 3359 is a supplemental appropriation bill focused on redistributing excess lottery revenues in West Virginia. Specifically, the bill reallocates funds from the Economic Development Authority's Economic Development Project Fund to the Department of Human Services, increasing its budget for Medical Services. The intent behind this measure is to ensure that necessary human services, likely including Medicaid, have adequate funding while slightly decreasing the budget for economic development projects in the state for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the bill appears to be supportive, as evidenced by its unanimous approval in the legislature, with 32 votes in favor and none against. This reflects a consensus on the necessity of funding for human services, particularly regarding health-related expenditures. However, there may be underlying concerns about the implications of reducing funding for economic development, which could affect growth initiatives.
Contention
While there appears to be bipartisan support for the bill, the contention lies in whether the reduction in funds for the Economic Development Authority might hinder future growth projects. Some lawmakers and stakeholders might argue that prioritizing human services can have long-term consequences for the state's economic landscape, raising questions about the balance between immediate needs and sustainable economic development.
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.