Finance

HB 5317 allocates $20 million from West Virginia's unappropriated surplus funds to the Department of Commerce's Division of Natural Resources for fiscal year 2026. This supplemental funding specifically supports capital outlay, repairs, and equipment within the Division's existing budget (Fund 0265). It does not create new programs or change policy, but rather uses leftover state funds to address operational needs for natural resource management. The bill directly affects the Division of Natural Resources' ability to maintain infrastructure and equipment during the 2026 fiscal year.

HB 5288 provides additional funding to West Virginia's existing Spay Neuter Assistance Fund, which helps low-income pet owners cover spaying and neutering costs for their animals. The bill supplements an unappropriated balance from the 2026 fiscal year budget to increase the fund's allocation without changing program eligibility or requirements. This is a procedural funding adjustment, not a new policy, and directly supports the state's veterinary assistance program for pet sterilization. The fund operates under West Virginia Code Chapter 19, continuing existing services for qualifying residents.

HB 5307 adds $10 million in funding from West Virginia's unappropriated surplus balance to the Division of Culture and History within the Department of Tourism for fiscal year 2026. This supplemental appropriation directly affects the division's ability to fund cultural programs, historical preservation, and related activities. The funds will be used for operational expenses during the 2026 fiscal year, as specified in the state budget's surplus allocation.

HB 5480 establishes the West Virginia Youth Summer Employment and Career Readiness Program to provide paid summer jobs and career training for youth aged 14-20, with priority given to those in foster care, receiving public assistance (like TANF or SNAP), or involved in the justice system. Administered by the Department of Commerce’s Division of Workforce Development, the program requires partnerships with private businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies to create work placements and career exploration opportunities. It mandates annual reporting on program effectiveness, allows private funding through matching contributions, and creates a special revenue account to support operations. The goal is to address workforce shortages, retain youth in West Virginia, and build a skilled local workforce through structured employment experiences.

HB 5277 is a funding bill that allocates $1 million to Welch Community Hospital, $3.4 million to William R. Sharpe Jr. Hospital, and $4.3 million to Mildred Mitchell-Bateman Hospital from West Virginia's unappropriated surplus balance. These funds are designated specifically for capital improvements, repairs, and equipment at each hospital during fiscal year 2026. The bill supplements existing appropriations by adding these new funding lines to the hospitals' respective budgets. It directly affects the three named hospitals by providing additional resources for facility maintenance and infrastructure. The bill does not create new policies or programs but reallocates existing surplus funds for capital purposes.