West Virginia Senate Bill SB938

West Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/25
• Refer: 3/27/25

Caption

Expiring funds from Department of Administration

Impact

The implications of SB 938 affect the allocation of state funding and the management of budgetary surplus. By expiring these funds, the bill streamlines financial activities and ensures that funds are available for urgent needs or future appropriations that may arise throughout the fiscal year. The bill aligns with practices aimed at maintaining a balanced budget and ensuring that surplus funds do not remain idle if they can be reallocated for better state utility. The overall impact is the enhancement of fiscal policy and assurance that financial resources are utilized efficiently.

Summary

Senate Bill 938 is a supplemental appropriation bill introduced in the West Virginia Legislature, aimed at managing the state’s financial resources more effectively. Specifically, it proposes expiring a total of $4,516,702 from the Department of Administration, Division of General Services' account for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The bill's intent is to transfer these surplus funds to the unappropriated surplus balance of the State Fund, General Revenue, thereby making them available for potential future expenditures. This action is classified under fund management within the state budget framework, contributing to fiscal responsibility and oversight of state finances.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 938 appears to be neutral and practical. Legislative discussions have focused primarily on financial management and the necessity of appropriating funds effectively rather than on political ideologies or broader social implications. Both supporters and some critics of budget management practices recognize the importance of maintaining a systematic approach to surplus funds. Since the bill centers on fiscal accountability, there is a sense of agreement on the need to manage the state's resources prudently.

Contention

Notable points of contention could revolve around how the excess funds are perceived in terms of their necessity and urgency. While the bill presents an opportunity for financial redirection, opinions may diverge on whether the surplus amount should remain in its original allocation for specific departmental projects or if reallocation to the general revenue fund is warranted. The debate may extend to varying opinions on the transparency of fund management practices and the long-term impacts of such reallocations on the services provided by the Department of Administration and its capacities.