West Virginia House Bill HB3520

West Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/9/25
• Engrossed: 4/11/25

Caption

Expiring funds to the surplus balance in the State Fund, General Revenue, Office of Energy

Impact

The immediate impact of HB 3520 includes a decrease in specific funds allocated to various state agencies and programs. This sunsets existing appropriations that are deemed unnecessary for the fiscal year, freeing up approximately $51 million to bolster the state's fiscal health. Depending on how these funds are reallocated, the bill has the potential to support new initiatives or cover expenses in other areas of need. Thus, while it serves to enhance the overall budgetary surplus, it also emphasizes the importance of judicious fund management across state departments and services.

Summary

House Bill 3520 aims to manage the surplus balance in the State Fund, General Revenue, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The bill proposes to expire various amounts from several state funds, including $1,000,000 from the Fire Commission – Fire Marshal Fees and smaller amounts from energy assistance and labor divisions. By expiring these funds, it facilitates the reallocation of surpluses back into the state treasury for future appropriations, ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency in state expenditures.

Sentiment

The sentiment among legislators regarding HB 3520 has been generally positive. Supporters view this bill as a necessary measure to ensure accountability within the state's budget. By pinpointing superfluous funds and reallocating them, the bill aims to maintain financial discipline. However, there may be opposition from stakeholders who rely on the expiring funds, as their projects could face budget constraints as a result. Overall, the sentiment balances between fiscal prudence and the concerns of impacted service providers.

Contention

Points of contention revolve around the implications of expiring these funds. Critics argue that while managing surplus is important, it could undermine essential state services—especially in areas heavily reliant on the expiring appropriations. Questions have also been raised about the transparency of the reallocation process and whether there will be adequate oversight in how the surplus funds are utilized thereafter. Such concerns highlight the tension between fiscal responsibility and the impacts on state programs and services.